End an unexpected call that asks you to move money, disclose login codes, or grant device access. Contact the real organization using a number you find independently. Do not transfer money to an account a caller describes as safe or protected.
Common impersonation stories
- A supposed bank employee says your savings are at risk and instructs you to transfer them.
- A caller claiming to work for a government agency threatens arrest, a fine, or a loss of benefits.
- A fake invoice or computer warning tells you to call support and allow remote access.
- Someone claims a family member has an emergency and pressures you to send money.
The FTC describes spoofed caller IDs, invented badge numbers, and official-looking letters as impersonation tactics. Those details do not verify a caller.
Verify through a separate contact
- Hang up or stop replying. Do not use a number the caller supplies as proof.
- For a bank, use the number on your card or its official app. For an agency, locate its official contact page.
- Ask whether the organization contacted you and whether the claimed problem exists.
- For a family emergency, try the person’s known number or another trusted family contact.
You can say: “I will contact the organization through its published number.” You do not need the caller’s permission to verify the claim.
If you already gave money or access
Use our immediate scam response guide to contact the payment provider and protect affected accounts. Tell the provider whether the caller directed a transfer or accessed the account.
If you allowed remote access, stop the session and seek help from a trusted support provider. Update security software, scan the device, and change exposed passwords through the real services.
Document and report the contact
Keep messages, profile or listing URLs, dates, amounts, and transaction references in a private folder. Save the evidence before blocking the account. Do not post passwords, verification codes, card numbers, or identity documents in public complaints.
Report suspected fraud at the FTC’s official ReportFraud website. Also notify the platform where the contact or listing appeared. A fraud report does not replace contacting your payment provider or securing an affected account.
If the contact concerns a debt you do not recognize, also read our debt-collection guide. Verify the debt and the collector instead of relying on a threatening call.
Common questions
Can scammers display my bank’s number?
Yes. Caller ID can be spoofed. End the call and contact the bank through a trusted route.
Does a badge or employee number prove identity?
No. Verify with the organization independently.
Should I move money to protect it at a caller’s request?
Do not follow that instruction. The FTC identifies demands to move money to “protect” it as a scam tactic.
Keep going
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Sources and page information
Official source links checked September 26, 2026. Requirements can change; use the relevant agency’s current instructions.
Prepared with AI assistance. Examples and worksheets are illustrative. This is general information, not legal advice. We do not submit complaints, determine eligibility, or guarantee a result.