Scam alert: Scammers are impersonating the FBI and IC3

July 21, 2026

Press release from Operation Senior Shield

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – If you have previously reported fraud or lost money to a scam, be especially cautious. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a new warning that scammers are impersonating the FBI and the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) to target people who have already been victims of fraud.

These criminals may pretend they have recovered your money or offer to help recover your losses. They may contact victims through fake social media accounts, messaging apps, emails, phone calls, or websites that closely resemble the official IC3 website. Some scammers are even using AI-generated videos that appear to feature FBI officials to make their schemes seem legitimate.

Red Flags

Someone claiming to represent the FBI or IC3 contacts you by phone, email, text message, social media, or a messaging app
Someone claims they can recover money you previously lost to fraud
Requests for payment, fees, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or personal information before recovering funds
Websites or complaint forms that look like IC3 but do not use the official ic3.gov website
Social media profiles claiming to represent IC3 or FBI personnel

Important Facts to Remember

The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) does not maintain a social media presence.
IC3 will never contact you directly by phone, email, text message, social media, or messaging apps.
IC3 will never ask you to pay money to recover funds lost to fraud.
The official IC3 website is www.ic3.gov.

Tips to Protect Yourself

Do not respond to unsolicited messages claiming to be from the FBI or IC3.
Do not send money or provide personal or financial information to anyone claiming they can recover your losses.
Type www.ic3.gov directly into your web browser rather than clicking links from emails, text messages, or search results.
If you have questions, contact your local FBI field office or other trusted law enforcement agency directly using publicly listed contact information.

How to Report Concerns or Get Help

Reporting suspicious activity may help protect other older adults from financial exploitation and fraud.

FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center: ic3.gov
Federal Trade Commission Fraud Reporting: ReportFraud.gov
Identity Theft Resource Center: 888-400-5530 or idtheftcenter.org
Contact your local law enforcement agency if you believe you have been targeted or shared personal or financial information.

Stay Informed

Operation Senior Shield (OSS) provides fraud alerts, scam prevention tips, and consumer protection information to help older adults across Florida recognize warning signs and avoid financial exploitation. Please continue sharing trusted fraud prevention information with friends, family members, caregivers, and loved ones.

Scammers often target people more than once, especially after they have already experienced fraud. Remember, legitimate law enforcement agencies will never ask you to pay to recover lost money. Staying informed through Operation Senior Shield can help you recognize warning signs, avoid scams, and protect yourself and others across Florida. If you receive an unexpected message claiming to be from the FBI or IC3, pause, verify, and report it.