A nationwide FBI effort to raise awareness of frauds and scams that affect the public is underway. The goal is to share information with the public to highlight different types of fraud and scams, tips for identifying them and preventing losses, and how victims can report to protect others.

One of the most common tactics scammers employ is a false sense of urgency or isolation. They may try to instill trust, induce empathy or fear, or promise monetary gains, companionship, or employment opportunities—all to lure victims into immediate action.

For this reason, the FBI’s awareness campaign urges the public to “Take A Beat”: resist pressure to act quickly, pause for a moment, and assess the situation.

According to the FBI’s latest Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) data, there have already been $1.6 billion in losses from January to May 2024, which is nearly $300 million more from the same time last year.

“The FBI is committed to investigate and pursue those who commit fraud for personal gain, and we take that responsibility very seriously,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Jose A. Perez.

“We, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to seek justice and hold accountable those who use illegal means and criminal behavior to take advantage of others.”

While fraud can happen to anyone, there are small steps that can be taken for citizens to protect themselves and their information: Take precautionary measures to protect your identity should a criminal gain access to your device or account.

Immediately contact your financial institutions to place protections on your accounts and monitor for suspicious activity.

Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, mailings, and door-to-door service offers.

Search online for the contact information (name, phone number, email, addresses) of any unknown source which reaches out to you, as well as the proposed offer.

Verify the legitimacy of businesses on websites such as Better Business Bureau.

Other people have likely posted information online about businesses and individuals attempting to run scams. Never give or send to unverified people or businesses any personally identifiable information, money, checks, gift cards, or wire information.

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