Federal prosecutors are warning that fake government agents are pressuring victims into crypto ATMs, wire transfers, and cash handoffs. Reported losses reached $917 million, with scammers using spoofed calls, fake badges, and urgent threats to make people believe their money is at risk.
Key Takeaways:
Scammers impersonate officials and push victims toward crypto ATMs, wire transfers, or couriers.Reported losses reached $917 million as fake agents used fear, urgency, and official-looking documents.Government imposter scams cost victims $917 million in reported losses in 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan warned in an announcement last week. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received more than 375,000 reports involving people posing as government agents.
Scammers often begin with an unexpected call claiming suspicious activity on an account. The caller may then transfer the victim to someone posing as a federal agent, who insists urgent action is needed to protect their money.
“It’s all a lie. No one from the government will ever ask you to do these things. Only scammers will.”
Fraudsters build the illusion carefully, using fake caller ID, official-looking letters, employee IDs, or badges. Some invent a suspended Social Security number, while others dangle government benefits or claim a crime has placed the victim’s money at risk.
The Never EVER Campaign Targets Fear-Driven Payment DemandsThe warning came as federal officials joined the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Elder Fraud Coordinating Council, and other agencies in recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
U.S. Attorney’s Office cautioned:
