CROMWELL, CT — By impersonating law enforcement, scammers intimidate victims into giving up money or personal information. But once a scam becomes widely reported, con artists need to change up their tricks. Watch out for this new twist: scammers using official-looking credentials to gain trust.
How the scam works
You receive a telephone call, email, text message, or a message on social media by someone alleging to be from a law enforcement agency. Scammers claim to represent agencies ranging from the local police to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
These impostors tell you there is a problem that you need to resolve immediately—usually by sending them a fee. In one recent version of this scam, the impostor claims to have seized a package with your name on it. Now, they need a copy of your driver’s license and money to fix the issue. Scammers often threaten fines, arrest, or other penalties in an attempt to scare you into immediate action.
Here's the new twist! If you are hesitant, the scammers will offer to text or email doctored credentials to you, to confirm their identity. The badge is either stolen or has been edited to include a different name. But no matter how convincing the “badge” or the impostor’s story may be, always do your research before acting. If you send these scammers money, they will disappear, and you won’t be able to get it back.
How to avoid law enforcement impersonator scams