Authorities urge slowing down, verifying stories, and consulting trusted sources before sending money; governments and banks do not demand crypto payments.

The FBI’s IC3 warns scammers are impersonating FBI personnel or IC3 on social media, fake pages, and AI-generated videos to deceive cybercrime victims.

Victims are commonly told their funds are already recovered or offered help to recover funds, which is false.

National losses exceed $21 billion, with about $7.2 billion from cryptocurrency investment fraud; Michigan losses near $381 million, including $173 million from pig butchering.

Practical tips: perform reverse-image searches, consult trusted friends or family, and report scams to IC3 to aid investigations and prevent further victimization.

Common patterns include ‘wrong number’ texts, social media or dating-app chats, and investment pitches promising high returns, often demanding cryptocurrency, gift cards, or traceable electronic payments.

Red flags include urgent payment demands, pressure tactics, and requests to click links; verify directly with the legitimate company or agency via official channels.

Practical guidance: avoid suspicious numbers or links, independently contact the referenced business or agency, and use trusted resources (IC3.gov, FBI tips, AARP Fraud Watch Network, BBB) for scam alerts.

Scams rely on urgency and fear to coerce disclosures or transfers; verification is recommended before responding to unexpected requests.

Messages seeming to come from law enforcement carry strong persuasive power and can expose credentials or finances if not verified.

Older adults are disproportionately affected; families should discuss scams with parents and grandparents before money is lost.

If money is sent, report to IC3.gov; act quickly within 24–48 hours for wire transfers, though recovery of crypto is more challenging.