TalkScams Team — educational discussion
Imposters posing as police or government officials demand payments — warning signs and safety checks
TalkScams Team discussion starter — an educational scam scenario, not a victim account.
What is the scam pattern?
The FBI describes impersonation schemes where callers claim to be authorities and threaten penalties or arrest unless the recipient sends money or provides personal information.
Warning signs to recognize
1. Unexpected calls threatening arrest, fines or license cancellation
2. Requests for urgent payments or sensitive data
3. Caller ID or video that appears official but cannot be independently verified
How to check or protect yourself
1. End the call and independently look up the agency’s official contact details
2. Keep relevant messages and payment records
3. Report U.S. cyber-enabled fraud through the FBI IC3
Discuss with the community
How would you contact the real organization without using the message or caller’s link?
Original government advisory: https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2026/PSA260917