Introduction to Online Financial Fraud
Victims of financial fraud are getting hit again — by those pretending to be FBI agents. Since December 2023, the FBI has received over 100 complaints from victims of financial fraud who say they were victimized again, the second time by scammers impersonating employees of the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Methods Used by Scammers
Some scammers would reach out via social media and forums, while others called or emailed victims, the FBI says. In one scheme, victims of financial fraud joined social media groups looking for support. But in these groups there were financial fraudsters, posing as other victims, sending actual victims to a fake profile they claimed was the chief of the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, the FBI says.
The Scam Involving "Jaime Quin"
These fraudsters, posing as female victims of financial fraud themselves, would tell actual victims to reach out to “Jaime Quin,” claiming he was the Complaint Center’s director. After victims reached out to “Quin” on the instant-messaging service Telegram, he would claim to have recovered the money they lost — but it was really a ruse to gain victims’ financial information.
Warning from the FBI
“The IC3 will never directly communicate with individuals via phone, email, social media, phone apps, or public forums,” the FBI says. “If further information is needed, individuals will be contacted by FBI employees from local field offices or other law enforcement officers.” The FBI has previously warned of scams involving law enforcement impersonators: Scammers have pretended a victim’s identity was used in a crime like in drug deals or money laundering, and they then have said they are law enforcement officials who can help catch a man or woman who faked romance to trick victims.
Reporting Internet Crimes
The FBI asks victims of internet crimes to report them to the actual IC3 at ic3.gov. Victims ages 60 or over seeking assistance filing out an IC3 complaint can contact the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Hotline at 833-372-8311.
Conclusion
The rise of scammers impersonating FBI agents to target victims of financial fraud is a concerning trend. It’s essential for individuals to be aware of these scams and to only report internet crimes to the legitimate IC3 website. By being vigilant and taking the necessary precautions, we can work together to prevent further victimization.
FAQs
- Q: What should I do if I’ve been a victim of financial fraud and someone contacts me claiming to be from the FBI?
A: Do not respond to them. Instead, report the incident to the actual IC3 at ic3.gov. - Q: How can I verify if someone is a legitimate FBI agent?
A: The FBI will never contact you directly via phone, email, social media, or phone apps. If further information is needed, you will be contacted by FBI employees from local field offices or other law enforcement officers. - Q: Where can I find help if I’m having trouble filing an IC3 complaint?
A: Victims ages 60 or over can contact the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Hotline at 833-372-8311 for assistance.
Originally Published: April 18, 2025 at 9:07 PM PDT
