Government Impostor Scam (IRS/SSA)
Scammers impersonate government agencies to threaten or pressure payment
Immediate Answer
This is a scam if: someone claiming to be IRS/SSA threatens arrest, demands immediate payment, or insists on gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers.
How This Scam Works
Scammers call, text, or email pretending to be government officials. They use fear: arrest warrants, frozen benefits, or legal penalties.
They push you to “resolve it now” using unusual payment methods and discourage you from verifying through official channels.
Signs This Is a Scam
- Threats of arrest or immediate legal action over the phone.
- Demands for gift cards, crypto, wire, or instant payment apps.
- Caller ID spoofing to look like a real agency.
- Refusal to let you hang up and call back via official numbers.
What To Do Right Now
- Hang up. Do not continue the conversation.
- Verify independently by contacting the agency using official numbers from its website (typed manually).
- Do not share SSNs, account numbers, or codes.
- If you’re unsure, talk with a trusted person before taking any action.
If You Already Sent Money or Information
If you paid, contact your financial institution immediately. Save all records and communications.
If you shared sensitive identifiers, consider credit freezes and account monitoring.
How To Protect Yourself Going Forward
- Remember: legitimate agencies do not demand gift cards or crypto.
- Keep a “pause and verify” rule for any threat-based call.
- Use MFA and strong passwords for key accounts.
You Are Not Alone
Fear is the main weapon here. Pausing, hanging up, and verifying through official channels is the right move.