Date Posted:
Thursday, January 30, 2025
Scammers are pretending to be government officials to steal money and gold. The Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has received reports of this scam and wants you to be informed.
How the Scam Works
- Scammers may call, email, text message, use social media, pop-up ads, or offer fake tech support.
- They say your bank account is compromised or has been hacked.
- They instruct you to withdraw money and convert it to gold, claiming they will "protect" your money.
- Scammers send a "courier" to pick up the gold. Once they have it, they disappear, and your money is gone.
Key Facts About This Scam
- No government agency will ever ask you to buy gold or use a courier to collect your money.
- Scammers create panic and pressure you to act immediately.
- They fake caller ID or emails to make their calls or emails look real.
What to Watch For
- Unexpected contact from someone claiming to be from a government agency or business.
- Claims your money is at risk: Scammers may say your account has been hacked or frozen.
- Instructions to buy gold or withdraw cash: They will insist this is the only way to protect your money.
- Use of "couriers": Scammers send someone to collect the gold, claiming they will store it safely.
How to Protect Yourself
- Hang up immediately if someone asks you to buy gold or withdraw money.
- Avoid clicking on links in emails or texts if you suspect they may be scams.
- Never share personal information or agree to meet with a stranger.
- Contact the government agency or your bank directly to verify any claims. Use official contact information.
- Be cautious of any call or email demanding immediate action.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you’ve been targeted or think you’re a victim, report it immediately:
- FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): www.ic3.gov