Cincinnati, Ohio – Federal authorities are warning Americans about a growing scam involving criminals posing as prosecutors and federal law enforcement officials in an attempt to steal money and sensitive personal information from victims across the country.
According to the FBI, scammers are contacting people through phone calls, emails, and text messages while pretending to be federal prosecutors, FBI agents, or other government officials. Investigators believe some of the perpetrators may be operating outside the United States.
Officials said the scammers often claim that the person being contacted is either the victim of fraud or a suspect in an active fraud investigation. The conversations may continue through multiple contacts before the scammers begin requesting personal or financial information.
Authorities warned that the criminals behind the scheme are becoming increasingly sophisticated. In many cases, they use real names, actual badge numbers, official titles, and government office addresses to appear legitimate. Investigators also say the scammers frequently use “spoofed” phone numbers, making incoming calls appear as though they are coming directly from real government agencies.
In the latest version of the scam, callers have reportedly been identifying themselves as “Prosecutor Dominick Gerace.”
Federal Officials Warn Public Not to Send Money
United States Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II stressed that legitimate federal agencies do not request money or sensitive information over the phone.
“The Department of Justice and the FBI will never direct you to wire money,” Gerace said. “If you receive calls or messages of this sort, do not provide any personal information, credit card numbers, prepaid cards or money. Federal authorities do not call victims of crimes or suspects of crimes and ask for money or personal identifying information over the telephone.”
FBI Cincinnati Special Agent in Charge Jason Cromartie also warned that government impersonation scams are becoming more common as scammers refine their tactics.
“Government impersonation scams are on the rise and scammers are getting more sophisticated,” Cromartie stated. “If someone contacts you claiming to be from the government and pressures you to send money, it’s a scam. Report this activity to ic3.gov and protect your hard-earned savings by never sending money.”
Authorities are urging people to stay cautious whenever they receive unexpected communication from someone claiming to represent law enforcement or the federal government.
Officials recommend treating unsolicited calls, texts, and emails with suspicion, especially if the person immediately requests money or personal information. They also warned residents never to send banking details, credit card numbers, prepaid card information, or other sensitive data to someone they do not personally know or did not contact themselves.
Investigators say people should trust their instincts if something feels suspicious. High-pressure tactics, threats, or urgent demands are often major warning signs connected to scams.
Federal authorities also encouraged anyone still uncertain about a caller’s legitimacy to independently verify the information by contacting the appropriate government agency or court office directly using official public phone numbers.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized by the scam is encouraged to file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. Officials said reports should include descriptions of the callers along with any available caller ID or phone number information that may assist investigators.
