Case Explained: FBI Chicago Seeks Information and Warns Public About Individuals Impersonating Federal Agents — FBI – Legal Perspective

The Chicago Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is warning the public about individuals claiming to be federal law enforcement in order to defraud victims of money and personally identifiable information. FBI Chicago is releasing photographs of two individuals suspected of perpetrating this scheme and is seeking the public’s help in identifying them.

“Criminals who commit these crimes leave lasting harm that reaches far beyond financial losses,” said FBI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Douglas S. DePodesta. “By posing as law enforcement, they erode the very trust our agencies require when working to protect and serve the public. The FBI and our partners will pursue all available avenues to hold offenders accountable and ensure that those who participate in these schemes are brought to justice.”

Fraudsters posing as law enforcement have been known to contact unsuspecting members of the public and claim that they are suspects or victims of a fraud investigation. The communications typically occur via text message, phone, or email and offenders are not always located within the United States. Recent reports detail that offenders have been known to create fraudulent scenarios, to include posing as bank employees who claim to be working alongside legitimate FBI agents, to gather personal and financial information on the victim.

The FBI urges the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution when communicating with anyone who claims to be federal law enforcement. Federal authorities will never ask for money or personal identifying information when contacting victims or suspects of crime online or over the phone.

If you, or someone you know, receives a call, text, or email from someone claiming to be a federal law enforcement agent, do not provide information or money in any form, including credit cards or prepaid cards.

The public is encouraged to be mindful of this additional guidance:

• Be suspicious of any unsolicited calls, texts, and emails.
• Follow your gut: if an unknown individual is making statements that don’t sound factual, or if they’re pressuring you to act immediately, end all communications and save them for record.
• If claims raise concern, verify the information independently by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency, bank, or company with the contact information publicly known, and not provided by a scammer.
• Be wary of providing money and/or personal information to someone with whom you did not initiate contact or have independent and direct affiliation.