DOJ Impersonators Target Elderly in Roanoke Scam

ROANOKE, Va. – The long arm of the law is often a shield, but now it’s being twisted into a weapon against the most vulnerable. The Department of Justice (DOJ) is warning residents of Roanoke and surrounding areas about a sophisticated scam targeting elderly citizens. Individuals are falsely claiming to be DOJ investigators in an attempt to extract personal information from unsuspecting victims.

The Office of Justice Programs’ Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) has been flooded with reports detailing how these scammers operate. They initiate contact via phone, brazenly identifying themselves as Department of Justice employees or investigators. In some instances, they leave voicemails directing victims to a return number that cleverly mimics the DOJ’s official phone system, complete with a matching recorded menu. Those who fall for the ruse are then connected to an “operator” who funnels them to a supposed investigator, ready to reel them in.

“It is unconscionable that anyone would seek to prey upon elderly victims,” stated First Assistant United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar today. “We will continue to work closely with our federal, state and local partners to make sure we prevent and limit the damage done by this fraud scheme, and hold anyone who has participated accountable.” Bubar’s office is urging extreme caution, reminding citizens that legitimate DOJ personnel will *never* solicit personal information over the phone.

The scam isn’t just about a phone call; it’s a meticulously crafted illusion. The scammers go to lengths to appear legitimate, using a mirrored phone system to build trust before attempting to pry into victims’ lives. The goal is clear: to obtain personal data for identity theft, financial exploitation, or other nefarious purposes. The OVC emphasizes the critical importance of reporting these incidents promptly, especially if financial losses have occurred. The first 48-72 hours are crucial for potential recovery of funds.

If you or a loved one receives a suspicious call claiming to be from the DOJ, do not engage. Do not provide *any* personal information. Report the incident immediately to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) via their website or by calling 877–FTC–HELP (877-382-4357). You can also report fraud to the FBI at https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/report-fraud. The National Elder Fraud Hotline is a dedicated resource for reporting fraud against individuals aged 60 and older: https://stopelderfraud.ovc.ojp.gov/.

For local information and resources, visit the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdva. This isn’t just a warning; it’s a call to arms. Protect yourself, protect your family, and report any suspicious activity. The predators are out there, and they’re counting on silence.”

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