Federal agencies warn that spoofing scams have resurfaced

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Homeland Security Investigations says scammers have yet another way to target communities: phone spoofing.

In this resurfaced form of scamming, numbers that look like they belong to federal agencies are used to target unsuspecting people.

The scammers seek targets for personal information and money.

Federal agent Taekuk Cho says that the scam is “picking up steam” and that scammers are impersonating various agencies.

“The issue is most federal agencies, they will not ask you for your personal information,” he said. “Usually, they won’t even email you. They will send you a letter in the mail.”

Cho recommends always looking up the actual numbers online if you suspect fraudulent contact.

“If you think you’ve been scammed, stop communicating with the individual immediately,” he said.”Talk to someone you trust, describe to them what’s going on, and report the incident to local law enforcement first.”

You can report spoof calls to the Federal Trade Commission or HSI directly at 866-347-2423.