A growing wave of fake agent phone scams is causing alarm across the United States, as fraudsters increasingly target unsuspecting individuals by impersonating federal agents. These scams often begin with a phone call that appears legitimate, displaying familiar initials like “FBI” or “US Marshals” due to spoofing technology. The scammers create panic by threatening arrest and demanding immediate payment through untraceable methods such as prepaid gift cards, cryptocurrency ATMs, or wire transfers. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, have issued urgent warnings to the public about these sophisticated schemes.

Reports of these scams have emerged from nearly every state, including New York, Illinois, Virginia, and Michigan. In some instances, scammers have increased their credibility by using real names and ranks of local officers. In Maryland, suspects posing as FTC agents even appeared in person to collect cash. The scams are not limited to phone calls; text message scams, known as “smishing,” are also on the rise. One such attack targeted iPhone users with fake DMV payment demands. According to cybersecurity firm Guardio, smishing incidents surged by 773% in just one month.

The success of these scams lies in their ability to exploit fear and manipulate trust. By spoofing official numbers, scammers undermine the public’s first line of defense. Experts warn that these tactics are likely to become even more advanced. To protect themselves, individuals are advised to remain skeptical of any unsolicited calls demanding money and to verify claims through official channels.

Victims are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to local authorities or file a report at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Raising awareness among family and friends is crucial, especially for those more vulnerable to such threats. Additionally, using personal data removal services can help reduce the risk of identity theft by limiting the availability of personal information online.

As scammers continue to evolve their tactics, staying informed and vigilant is essential for safeguarding personal and financial security. Authorities emphasize that no legitimate government agency will demand payment over the phone or request gift cards or cryptocurrency as a form of settlement.