The caller claims that a phone was registered in the victim’s name and used for fraud abroad. A fake FTC officer cites a badge number, threatens to disconnect the line and transfers the call to a supposed police officer.

Verification that remains under criminal control

Victims may be told to search online and call a number.

But the scammer dictates what to search for and controls the second contact. Real verification changes both channel and source: hang up, find the organisation’s official website independently and use the contact details published there.

Four warning signs

The FTC says it will not ask for money, threaten to disconnect a phone, demand secrecy or send a badge photo as proof.

The scammers later seek ID, personal details and a “security deposit” to avoid a fictional arrest.

What to do

End the call. Do not share SMS codes, identity documents or banking information.

If information or money has already been sent, contact the relevant institution promptly and use national reporting channels. Keep messages and transaction references, but do not prolong the conversation to confront the caller.

La peur reste l’outil principal

AI may help imitation, but the FTC alert does not attribute this campaign to generative technology.

Conclusion

AI may help imitation, but the FTC alert does not attribute this campaign to generative technology.