Impersonation Scam Reporting

Programs that provide a hotline, website or other mechanisms that people can use to report scams involving impostors. Scammers may pose as government officials claiming a problem with the individual's benefits, status or tax debt that can only be resolved with an immediate infusion of cash; as bank officials claiming a problem with the individual's accounts; as legitimate businesses to broaden the types of fraud that can be pursued as well as the list of potential victims using the real business's good name; or as family members who are purportedly in crisis requiring prompt help. Reports have also been filed by people who have fallen victim to scams perpetrated by an individual impersonating a member of the military who, after engaging in an online relationship, began asking for money for various false service-related needs. Impersonation con artists can use a variety of methods to make contact including approaches by telephone, text messages, emails and instant messages through social networking sites such as Facebook as well as legitimate dating sites.