FBI Warns of Phone Number Impersonation Scam, Denver CO, 2023

Denver residents – and increasingly, people across the country – are being targeted by a brazen new scam: criminals are spoofing the FBI’s phone number to convince victims their identities or bank accounts are compromised. The goal? To scare them into immediately transferring funds to gift cards or cryptocurrency before they have time to think. This isn’t some low-level hustle; the FBI in Denver reports losses ranging from $940 to a staggering $13,000 per victim.

The operation relies on a technique called “spoofing,” where scammers manipulate caller ID systems to display the FBI’s official phone number – 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) – on the victim’s device. This creates an immediate illusion of legitimacy, playing on the public’s respect for federal law enforcement. Once the line is open, the fraudsters pose as agents, spinning tales of hacked accounts and imminent financial ruin.

Federal prosecutors are clear: the FBI *will never* demand money be sent via gift cards or cryptocurrency. These payment methods are red flags, offering no traceability and serving only the scammer’s pockets. The urgency is also a key indicator. Legitimate law enforcement investigations don’t operate on panicked demands for immediate financial transfers. They follow due process and verifiable procedures.

While the initial reports originated from areas outside of Colorado and Wyoming, the FBI in Denver warns this scam is rapidly expanding. Victims aren’t limited by geography. The sophistication of the spoofing technology means anyone, anywhere, could be next. The agency has identified a pattern of targeting vulnerable individuals, often those less familiar with online security measures.

If you receive a call claiming to be from the FBI, even if the number appears legitimate, do not share any personal or financial information. Hang up immediately. The correct procedure is to contact your local FBI field office directly to verify the call’s authenticity. You can find contact information at tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI. Report the scam to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) as well.

This isn’t just about money; it’s about eroding trust in law enforcement and exploiting fear for financial gain. The feds are urging the public to remain vigilant, spread awareness among family and friends, and remember the golden rule: if something feels off, it probably is. Don’t let scammers turn your fear into their profit.