FBI warns South Carolina residents of statewide scam using ‘spoofed’ phone numbers

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - The FBI is warning people in South Carolina about a rise in government impersonation scams across the state, according to a release from the agency Monday.

Criminals are reportedly posing as FBI agents, disguising themselves with phone numbers from the agency. The main phone number for the agency’s field office in Columbia are among numbers being used, according to the FBI.

Scammers pose as government officials, threatening to arrest or prosecute victims. This threat continues unless people give them money or personal information, the FBI said.

The agency added a common tactic for scammers is to call victims and say they have missed federal jury duty or have an arrest warrant. Then, they tell people to expect a follow-up call from an FBI agent.

During follow-up calls, scammers ask victims to withdraw large amounts of cash and convert it into digital currency at designated kiosks in order to avoid fines and penalties.

“While this type of fraud is not new, it is one of the many variations that exploit fear and urgency by invoking law enforcement authority,” the release continues.

The FBI is reminding people they will never demand payment with gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or cash deposits at kiosks. They also warn you to never share personal or financial information with unknown callers.

If you do receive a suspicious call from someone who claims to be in the FBI, the agency is asking you to hang up immediately, independently verify the phone number of your local field office, and call directly to confirm.

If you believe you are a target, the FBI said to call 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit an online tip at tips.fbi.gov.

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