By: The Roseville Police Department

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way we live and work, but it is also giving criminals powerful new tools to commit fraud. Scammers are now using AI to create highly convincing impersonations, making it harder than ever to tell what’s real and what’s fake. In 2024 alone, U.S. consumers lost more than $16 billion to cyber-enabled crimes, according to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center. Experts warn that AI-generated scams are expected to be one of the most significant fraud threats in 2026.

Unlike traditional scams, which often feature obvious red flags such as poor grammar or suspicious email addresses, AI-powered fraud is far more sophisticated. Criminals now rely on voice cloning, deepfake videos, and AI-generated messages to create urgent and emotional situations designed to trick victims. With just a few seconds of audio from a social media post, scammers can clone someone’s voice so accurately that it may sound indistinguishable from the real person.

Victims might receive a frantic phone call from what sounds exactly like a loved one claiming they have been injured or arrested and need money immediately. Others may receive a realistic video call that appears to be from a company executive requesting an urgent wire transfer. AI can also generate highly polished phishing emails that look identical to legitimate messages from banks, delivery services, or government agencies.

Common AI-generated scams

Voice cloning (Grandparent or relative scam)
Criminals clone a family member's voice using short audio clips found online. Victims receive a panicked call asking for immediate financial help.

Deepfake video calls
Scammers create realistic video calls impersonating business leaders, coworkers, or family members to authorize financial transfers or request sensitive information.

AI-powered phishing
Generative AI produces professional-looking emails and text messages in multiple languages that bypass spam filters and appear to come from trusted organizations.

Social media impersonation
Fraudsters duplicate social media profiles and use AI chat tools to hold convincing conversations with friends or followers, often promoting fake investment or cryptocurrency schemes.

Chatbot impersonation
Fake customer service bots trick victims into providing login credentials, account numbers, or financial details.

How to Protect Yourself

• Create a secret code: Establish a family or workplace “safe word” to confirm identities during emergency calls.

• Verify the source: If you receive a frantic message or call, hang up and contact the person directly using a known phone number.

• Slow down: Scammers rely on urgency and panic to pressure victims into quick decisions. Take time to verify before sending money or sharing information.

• Avoid clicking links: Instead, visit official websites directly.

• Inspect details carefully: Look for subtle clues such as unnatural pauses in voices, unusual requests, or strange phrasing.

• Report suspicious activity: If you believe you’ve been targeted, report it to the Federal Trade Commission or the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center.

AI scams are evolving rapidly and are designed to bypass traditional warning signs by making fake interactions appear incredibly authentic. In today’s digital world, seeing and hearing are no longer proof that something is real. Awareness, skepticism, and taking a moment to verify unexpected requests can be the difference between staying safe and becoming the next victim of AI-powered fraud.

That “tax refund” text or email is likely a scam

By: The Roseville Police Department 

Tax season for 2026 officially began on January 26, when the IRS started processing 2025 tax returns. Unfortunately, that also marked the start of peak tax scam season. If you’re expecting a refund, scammers may try to steal it before you ever see it.

Be cautious of any unexpected text or email about a “tax refund,” especially messages urging you to click a link. These messages are often scams designed to trick you into sharing personal information and handing over your refund.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), these scams typically appear as messages that look like they’re from the IRS or a state tax agency, claiming your refund has been “processed” or “approved.” That’s a red flag; this is not how legitimate tax agencies communicate. The message may ask you to “verify your identity” or “claim your money” by clicking a link and entering sensitive details such as your Social Security number or bank account information. This is phishing. If you respond, scammers can steal your refund or use your information to commit identity theft.

How to avoid tax refund scams (FTC tips)

• Know how the IRS really communicates. The IRS and state tax agencies will not contact you by text, email, or social media to request personal information. Only scammers do that.

• Don’t click links or reply. Never use a link from a message to check your refund status. Instead, go directly to USA.gov to learn how to verify whether you’re receiving a federal or state tax refund.

• Report and delete the message. Use your phone’s “report junk” feature, forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM), and mark scam emails as spam or junk. After reporting, delete the message.

To learn how to protect yourself from identity theft before it happens, visit IdentityTheft.gov/steps. If you spot a scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Source: Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

Top 10 tips for protecting yourself from identity theft

By: The Roseville Police Department 

Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information and uses it without your permission, often to open accounts, rack up debt, or even commit crimes in your name. The impact can be stressful, costly, and time-consuming to fix. To help consumers stay protected, the California Department of Justice recommends the following practical steps to reduce your risk and safeguard your identity.

1. Guard your Social Security number.
   Your Social Security number is one of the most valuable pieces of personal information you possess. Avoid carrying your Social Security card in your wallet, and refrain from routinely sharing the number unless absolutely necessary. If your health plan or another card uses your Social Security number as an identifier, request an alternative number.

2. Outsmart phishing scams.
   Scammers often pose as banks, retailers, or government agencies to trick people into revealing sensitive information. These “phishing” attempts may come through phone calls, emails, texts, or even traditional mail. Never respond to requests asking you to confirm account numbers or passwords. Legitimate organizations do not ask for this information unexpectedly. The safest rule: never share personal information unless you initiated the contact.

3. Strengthen your password habits.
   Weak or reused passwords make it easy for identity thieves to access your accounts. Use unique passwords for each account, with at least eight characters that include letters, numbers, and symbols. Store them securely and avoid obvious choices. Strong password practices take effort, but they are far easier than recovering from identity theft.

4. Share sparingly on social media.
   Information posted on social networks, such as birthdates, addresses, children’s names, or travel plans, can be used by criminals to guess passwords or launch scams. Be mindful of what you share and adjust privacy settings to limit public access.

5. Protect your devices.
   Computers, tablets, and smartphones should be secured with strong passwords and up-to-date firewall, antivirus, and spyware protection. Only download software from trusted sources, and avoid clicking on pop-up ads or suspicious links in emails. Keeping your devices updated helps block known security threats.

6. Shop online cautiously.
   Before entering personal or financial information online, verify that the website is legitimate. Look for a privacy policy and check for “https” in the web address and a padlock symbol in the browser. These indicate that your information will be encrypted and better protected.

7. Review financial statements promptly.
   Open and review your bank and credit card statements as soon as they arrive. Report any unfamiliar charges immediately. If a bill doesn’t arrive on time, contact the company—it could signal that someone has changed your mailing information.

8. Reduce pre-approved credit offers.
   Pre-approved credit offers can be stolen from mailboxes and misused. You can opt out of most of these offers by calling 1-888-567-8688 or visiting optoutprescreen.com.

9. Monitor your credit reports for free.
   You are entitled to one free credit report each year from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Reviewing these reports regularly helps you spot suspicious activity early. Consider spacing them out every four months for year-round monitoring.

10. Ask questions and speak up.
    When asked for personal information, don’t hesitate to ask why it’s needed, how it will be used, and how it will be protected. If the answers don’t satisfy you, consider taking your business elsewhere.

Criminals are persistent, but informed consumers can be just as vigilant. By consistently following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming an identity theft victim and better protect your financial future.

911 Newsletter 2026-01 January.pdf

By: The Roseville Police Department 

 Scams are becoming increasingly convincing, fueled by AI, emotional manipulation, and a sense of false urgency. Criminals impersonate trusted people and organizations to steal money, personal information, or account access. Knowing how these scams work is one of the best ways to protect your finances, identity, and peace of mind.

Common scams to watch for

1. Impersonation Scams
   AI has made it harder to detect fake emails, voice clones, and even deepfake videos. Scammers may pose as your bank, a business, or a family member to pressure you into acting quickly.
   Their goal: Access to your money or accounts.
   Stay safe:

• Verify before you trust. Hang up and contact the organization using an official phone number.

• Never share personal or financial information in response to an unexpected call, text, or email.

2. Romance Scams
   These scams continue to grow, with seniors frequently targeted. Scammers build online relationships using fake identities, then request money, gift cards, or “emergency” help. A recent Roseville case resulted in a $1 million loss.
   Their goal: Gain your trust to get you to send money.
   Stay safe:

• Be cautious with online-only relationships.

• Never send money or gifts to someone you haven’t met in person.

• Talk to a trusted friend or family member before sending funds.

3. Fake “Fraud Alert” Calls or Texts
   Scammers pretend to be from your bank, warning you of suspicious activity. They pressure you to “verify” information or move money to a so-called “safe account.”

Their goal: Gain access to your account or trick you into moving money directly to them.

Legitimate companies will never:

• Ask for your online banking password or full debit card PIN.

• Request one-time passcodes sent to your device.

• Tell you to move money “for protection.”

• Threaten to close your account if you don’t act immediately.

Stay safe:

• Never share personal or financial information with an unexpected caller, texter, or email sender.

• Contact your financial institution using the phone number on your bank statement or debit/credit card.

4. Online Marketplace Scams
   Fake listings and deposit scams are common on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Scammers push urgency and request untraceable payments.
   Their goal: Steal your money.
   Stay safe:

• Verify listings and messages before paying.

• Use secure payment methods with buyer protection. Avoid gift cards and wire transfers.

Final Tips for 2026

• Stay informed—scam tactics evolve quickly.

• If something sounds too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.

• Guard your personal information and limit what you share online.

Criminals are always adapting. Staying alert and informed will put you in a stronger position to protect yourself and your finances throughout 2026.

911 Newsletter 2025-12 December.pdf

By: The Roseville Police Department 

The holiday season is one of the most joyful times of the year, filled with lights, celebrations, and gift-giving. But it also brings packed stores, busy parking lots, and plenty of distractions that can make shoppers easy targets for thieves. From Black Friday through the final days of December, keeping safety in mind can help ensure your holiday cheer doesn’t turn into holiday stress.

Before heading out, plan ahead and stay alert with these key shopping safety tips:

• Shop with a friend or family member. There’s safety in numbers.

• Keep your belongings secure. Hold your purse close and carry your wallet in a front pocket or inside coat pocket — never in your cart or back pocket.

• Use cards or digital payments. Avoid flashing cash and only take out money when paying.

• Disguise high-value purchases. Place expensive items in plain or less noticeable shopping bags.

• Watch your belongings in food courts. Keep bags beneath your table and within reach.

• Stick to one credit card. If your card is stolen or a data breach occurs, you’ll limit the potential damage.

• Check your statements. Save receipts and monitor your credit card activity regularly.

• Have a family plan. If shopping with children, choose a central meeting spot in case you get separated.  Teach your children to ask a security guard or store employee for help.

• Stay aware. Avoid excessive phone use and don’t overload yourself with bags.

Parking lot safety:

• Park in well-lit areas and shop during daylight when possible.

• Lock your car and store valuables in the trunk before you arrive.

• Stay alert while walking to your vehicle, have your keys ready, and your phone put away.

The holidays should be merry, not stressful. A little awareness and preparation go a long way toward keeping your shopping trips safe and your season bright.

Stay safe and happy holidays!

Protect yourself from purse or wallet theft

By: The Roseville Police Department 

Purse theft is a common crime that can happen to anyone, often leaving victims feeling vulnerable and frustrated. Understanding how thieves operate—and taking a few simple precautions—can go a long way in keeping your belongings safe.

There are two main types of purse theft: pickpocketing and purse snatching. Pickpockets are skilled at slipping items out of purses or pockets without the victim noticing, often striking in crowded areas such as grocery stores, markets, or public transit. Purse snatching, on the other hand, is more aggressive—thieves grab a purse and run, usually targeting people walking on the street or sitting at cafés.

Thieves often choose distracted individuals carrying loosely secured bags. They may also work in pairs, with one person creating a distraction while the other takes the wallet or purse.

Recent incidents in Roseville highlight these tactics.

• Incident 1: While grocery shopping around 4 p.m., a woman was approached by another shopper who asked product questions. Moments later, her wallet was gone. Within an hour, her stolen cards were used to make purchases totaling $13,000.
  Prevention Tip: Keep handbags zipped and secure. Be cautious of strangers who attempt to distract you.

• Incident 2: In another case, a woman shopping around 1 p.m. was crowded in the freezer aisle by a male and a female. She later discovered her wallet was missing, and her credit card was quickly used for an $840 purchase.
  Prevention Tip: Stay alert in stores, especially when others invade your personal space.

Protect yourself:

• Use crossbody bags with locking zippers or slash-resistant straps.

• Keep purses on your lap or between your feet in cafés—never on the back of a chair.

• Stick to well-lit, busy areas, especially at night.

• Limit the amount of cash and valuables you carry.

• Never leave your purse unattended in your cart.

If your purse or wallet is stolen, report it to the police immediately and notify your bank or credit card companies.

Staying alert and taking precautions doesn’t just protect your belongings—it gives you peace of mind.

Scammers are pretending to be government workers, and it’s costing people money. These imposters might contact you by phone, email, or text message. They claim they’re from the Social Security Administration, Medicare, or another government agency. They might say something scary, like your Social Security number has been suspended or that you could lose your benefits. To fix the “problem,” they demand money or personal information. They may ask you to send gift cards or read them the PIN numbers. Some even ask for payment through wire transfers or cryptocurrency.

These scammers can sound very convincing. They may even know part of your Social Security number. Your caller ID may show a Washington, D.C. area code, making it look like a real government call.

But here’s the truth: It’s not the government.  The U.S. government does not call, email, or text people out of the blue to threaten them or offer surprise money. Real government agencies won’t ask for payment using gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto. These are sure signs of a scam.

Even if the caller seems to know personal details or your caller ID looks official, it could still be fake. Scammers can “spoof” phone numbers to make them look real. If you’re unsure, don’t respond. Instead, contact the agency directly using a number you know is real, not the one they gave you.

What to do:

1. Stop and think. If someone contacts you claiming to be from the government and asks for money or personal info, hang up or delete the message. Do not send money or share private information.
2. Don’t pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto. These payment methods are a red flag. You won’t get your     money back if you fall for this scam.
3. Find the real contact information. If you want to reach a government agency, go to USA.gov. That’s the official source for government contact information.
4. Tell someone. Even if you haven’t received one of these calls or messages, chances are someone you know has. Share this information with friends or family. You could help stop the scam before it spreads.
5.  

Stay alert. Government impostor scams are common, but with the right knowledge, you can avoid becoming a victim.

Could that unexpected text be a scam?

By: The Roseville Police Department

 Did you know that 98% of people always open text messages? With fraud losses involving text scams increasing, it’s a good possibility that unexpected text could be a scam.  If scammers can get you to respond, they have a possible victim they can cash in on.

Here are some trick the scammer may employ:

• You receive a text message from the fraud department from Amazon, your bank, or credit card company informing you of suspicious charges to your account and you need to respond by calling or messaging back.  Instead of helping, the scammer tricks you into sending money.
• You receive a text indicating that there is a problem with a delivery, or it may be a message about unpaid tolls.  The text tells you to click the link to fix the problem.  The link takes you to a fake website where you give out your credit card information and other personal information
• You receive a text that might say, “Hi, how are you?” It seems harmless and your first thought is to respond and let the texter know they have the wrong number.  Scammers are actually trying to get you to text back and keep the conversation going in hopes of befriending you.  Their ultimate goal is to gain your trust.  They will then claim they can help you make money by investing in cryptocurrency, the stock market, or something else.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers the following tips on what to do if you are getting text messages from unknown numbers.

• Don’t reply to text messages from unknown numbers. It could lead to a scam. Delete and report them using your phone’s “report junk” option or forwarding unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM) and unwanted emails to your email provider.
• Never click links in an unexpected message. Some links might steal your information, or install malware that gives scammers access to your device.
• Don’t trust anyone who says you can quickly and easily make money. Every investment has risks. Only scammers guarantee you’ll make lots of money in a short time with zero risk. 
• Don’t assume a text from a known company or organization is legit. Check it out. Reach out to the company, state tolling agency, or bank using a phone number or website you know is real — not the info from the text.

Have you lost money to a scam like this? Tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. and to your local law enforcement agency.

Scams Happen

Can you identify them?

By: The Roseville Police Department

Tackling fraud and scams takes more than posting warnings about suspicious links and online shopping gone wrong. Everyone needs to do their part by identifying and reporting fraud/scams and telling authorities if they fall victim or become aware of one.

The FBI identifies common scams you need to know:

• Charity and disaster fraud — Unfortunately, not all donation campaigns are legitimate. To protect yourself when donating to a charity or disaster relief fund, give via checks or credit cards and research the organization by examining its history through the FTC.

• Elder fraud — If you’re a senior, you may be more likely to become a target of fraud due to scammers hoping you’ll be a homeowner, have a good credit score, and have retirement/savings money. To protect yourself or a loved one, talk with family before making significant financial decisions, such as getting a substantial amount of gift cards or giving to someone who claims they need to help your relative out of a tight spot. 

• Tech support scams — Impersonators can scam you via false tech support services by charging you a fee before they fix the issue, demanding payment immediately, or asking you to share your bank info before they continue. These scammers initiate contact through unsolicited calls or texts, Internet pop-up windows, or fake tech support websites.

• Skimming — “Skimmers” are devices illegally installed on pay terminals, ATMs, or other points of transaction for cards. When you enter your PIN, they can record your info and use it to create fake accounts, open cards, or make unauthorized and illegal charges. Look for pinhole cameras on ATMs, use tap-to-pay, and carefully inspect terminals before using your card.

• Healthcare fraud — This type of fraud can be committed by medical providers, patients, and others. For example, Providers could double bill or phantom bill their patients, Patients might let another person use their insurance, and Others might impersonate health care professionals by providing a service without a license. To keep yourself and others safe, do your research and be a responsible patient.

To test your knowledge and learn to identify a wider variety of scams, visit www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams.

Roseville PD takes fraud and scams seriously, and we need you to do your part in keeping yourself AND others safe by reporting to the FBI, FTC, and local law enforcement (that's us!).

FBI: www.ic3.gov

FTC: www.reportfraud.ftc.gov

RPD: www.roseville.ca.us  (916) 774-5000

Identity theft is on the rise, and experts say there’s no end in sight. In 2024, data breaches exposed more than 1 billion records, a staggering 312% increase from 2023, according to the Identity Theft Resource Center. Major companies, including Change Healthcare, United Healthcare, and AT&T, experienced breaches, affecting millions of people. With cybercriminals constantly finding new ways to steal personal information, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself. One of the best ways to do this is by freezing your credit.

How Does a Credit Freeze Work?

A credit freeze stops lenders from accessing your credit report. When you apply for a loan, credit card, or bank account, lenders check your credit history before approving your application. If your credit is frozen, they cannot access your report, making it difficult for criminals to open accounts in your name.

What to Know About Freezing Your Credit

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides these important facts about credit freezes:

• Anyone can freeze their credit.
• Freezing and unfreezing your credit is free.
• A credit freeze does not affect your credit score.
• You must contact all three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—to freeze your credit.
• A freeze remains in place until you lift it. If you need to apply for credit, you’ll have to lift the freeze at all three bureaus.  However, if you know which bureau a lender will use, you can lift the freeze only at that bureau.
   

Should You Place a Fraud Alert Instead?

In addition to a credit freeze, you might consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file. A fraud alert notifies lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening a new account. There are three types of fraud alerts:

• Initial Fraud Alert: If you suspect identity theft, you can place this free alert, which lasts one year. It makes it harder for someone to open an account in your name.
• Extended Fraud Alert: If you’ve been a victim of identity theft and have completed an FTC report at IdentityTheft.gov or filed a police report, you can place this free alert. It lasts seven years and also removes your name from unsolicited credit and insurance offers for five years.
• Active Duty Fraud Alert: If you are on active military duty, you can place this alert to protect your credit while deployed. It lasts one year and removes you from unsolicited credit and insurance offers for two years.
   

Take Action Now

A credit freeze and fraud alert are powerful tools to guard against identity theft. You can place both on your credit file for added protection. If you believe your identity has been stolen, visit IdentityTheft.gov to report the incident and receive a personalized recovery plan.

For more details, visit the FTC website to determine if a credit freeze or fraud alert is right for you. Taking these precautions now can save you time, stress, and financial loss in the future

Donating to wildfire relief? Beware of scammers

By: The Roseville Police Department 

 In the aftermath of the devastating wildfires in Southern California, communities across the nation are rallying to help those affected. While many people are eager to contribute, it’s crucial to remain cautious when donating. Scammers are taking advantage of the situation, using increasingly sophisticated methods to steal money from well-meaning donors.

With the abundance of charitable organizations, it can be difficult to determine which ones are legitimate. Adding to the confusion, federal laws allow legitimate charities to make fundraising calls, which scammers can exploit by impersonating real charities. They may even manipulate Caller ID to appear more convincing. Advances in artificial intelligence have made their schemes even harder to detect, and social media has become another tool scammers use to trick potential donors.

If you want to help wildfire victims, it’s essential to ensure your money is going to trustworthy organizations. The BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers several tips for safe and thoughtful giving:

1. Verify the charity’s trustworthiness: Use Give.org to search for charity reports and confirm whether the organization meets BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. Only donate to charities you can verify as trustworthy.
2. Look for specific relief activities: Be wary of vague appeals that don’t clearly outline how your donation will be used. Legitimate organizations should provide detailed information about their relief efforts.
3. Avoid clickbait and phishing scams: After disasters, scammers often send emails, texts, or social media links that appear to connect you to a familiar charity. Instead of clicking these links, visit the charity’s official website directly.
4. Examine crowdfunding requests: Crowdfunding platforms vary in how they screen and verify campaigns. Research the platform’s procedures, and pay attention to fees and other details. When in doubt, donate directly to well-known organizations rather than individual campaigns.
5. Check state charity registrations: About 40 states require charities to register annually. You can verify an organization’s registration through your state’s attorney general or secretary of state’s office.
6. Understand disaster relief phases: Disasters typically involve three stages—rescue, relief, and recovery—each requiring different types of support. Knowing these phases can help you direct your donation to where it’s needed most.

Your contribution can make a real difference to wildfire victims, but vigilance is key. Scammers often rely on emotions and urgency to manipulate donors. By taking a few extra steps to verify organizations and avoid suspicious appeals, you can ensure your generosity truly benefits those in need.

Stay informed, donate wisely, and help Southern California rebuild. To see a list of BBB Accredited Charities supporting Southern California Wildfire Relief, click here.

Scams to Avoid in 2025

By: The Roseville Police Department 

Americans lose billions of dollars to online scams every year. With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), scammers have even more tools to trick unsuspecting individuals into giving away their personal information or money. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, reported losses in 2023 exceeded $12 billion. Digital tools like chatbots have made it easier to deceive people, and this trend is expected to continue.

Below are some of the top scams to watch out for in 2025:

1. Job Offer Scams

This scam often appears on job boards or comes via phone calls, messages, or unsolicited emails offering quick cash for little work. Scammers may ask for personal details like your Social Security number, bank account information, or even money to cover training or equipment costs under the guise of “routine paperwork” for employment.

Prevention Tip: Apply only for jobs on reputable sites. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

2. Lottery Scams

These scams involve contact through email, text, or social media claiming you’ve won a lottery, sweepstakes, or big-ticket prize like money or a trip. Scammers often ask for payment to cover taxes or legal fees. Warning signs include having to pay to claim a prize, not remembering entering a contest, or the lottery originating from a foreign country.

Prevention Tip: Don’t trust anyone claiming you’ve won a lottery, especially if you have to pay to receive the prize.

3. Government Impersonation Scams

Scammers pose as officials from government agencies such as law enforcement, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), or the U.S. Postal Service. They may threaten fines, jail time, or other consequences to pressure you into sending money or personal information. Common payment methods requested include gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.

Prevention Tip: Verify the agency’s authenticity by using a trusted phone number—not one provided by the caller. Government agencies will never request payment through gift cards or cryptocurrency.

4. Grandparent Scams

This scam targets older adults by exploiting their willingness to help family members. Scammers pose as a grandchild or relative in distress, often claiming they need money urgently to get out of trouble abroad, such as being in jail.

Prevention Tip: Take time to verify the family member’s identity by asking specific questions only they would know. Contact other family members to confirm before sending any money.

How to Report a Scam

If you fall victim to a scam, it’s important to report it. File a police report by calling (916) 774-5000, extension 1. You should also report the scam to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. The more information authorities have, the better they can track scammers and prevent future crimes.

Remember, if something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Stay vigilant and protect your personal information.