Between January 2025 and July 2026, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received nearly 61,000 complaints about scams involving individuals impersonating law enforcement or government officials. These scams are believed to have resulted in approximately $1.6 billion in losses, although the actual amount is likely much higher, as many incidents are not reported. Victims often lose an average of $26,000 per scam, with the most significant loss linked to a single scam that affected fewer than 3% of the victims. Scammers typically use phone calls, and sometimes video calls, to contact their targets. They often pose as law enforcement or government officials, making claims such as missed jury duty or circumstantial links to a crime. These tactics are designed to create fear and urgency, prompting victims to pay money to avoid supposed legal consequences. In some cases, scammers specifically target foreign nationals, international students, and immigrants, threatening to cancel visas or passports unless payments are made. To make their deception more convincing, some scammers create elaborate setups, including studio sets, uniforms, and even fake official documents. They may appear in video calls as if they are foreign law enforcement agents or U.S. diplomats, reinforcing the illusion of legitimacy. Victims, believing they are dealing with real authorities, often pay to avoid deportation or other legal issues. It is also important to note that this type of fraud is not limited to the United States; it is an international criminal issue that can occur both online and in person. To recognize and avoid these scams, it is crucial to remain calm and not let fear cloud judgment. If someone claims to be from law enforcement or a government agency, ask for their credentials and verify them independently. Legitimate officials will not be in a rush and will not demand payment. If a caller insists on immediate payment, it is a clear sign of a scam. Remember, no law enforcement agency, including the FBI, will ever ask for money during an investigation. If in doubt, end the conversation and contact official sources directly.