Reporting Scammers Impersonating Military Personnel: A Comprehensive Guide
Scammers who pose as military personnel are a growing concern, targeting individuals who support the troops. If you suspect you are dealing with a scam, knowing how to report it can make a significant difference. This guide provides detailed steps on how to report scammers posing as military members, complete with verified resources and tips to protect yourself from such scams.
How to Report Scammers Posing as Military Members
Many scammers impersonate military personnel to gain trust and manipulate their targets. While it can be challenging to hold them accountable, taking the right steps can still aid in their investigation and potential prevention of further fraud.
1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
File a complaint with the FTC through their website:
ReportFraud.ftc.gov
2. Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
If the scam occurred online, you can report it to the IC3:
IC3.gov
3. Local Law Enforcement
Consider reporting the scam to your local police department, especially if you have lost money.
4. Military-Related Fraud
You can also report the scam through the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)’s dedicated resources for military-related fraud. Visit the DoD's website for more information.
5. Consumer Protection Agency
Check with your state’s consumer protection agency for additional resources and reporting options.
6. Social Media Platforms
If the scam occurred on social media, report the account to the platform, such as Facebook, Instagram, or others.
Cost of Military-Related Scams
Every year, thousands of people fall victim to military-related scams. Last year, nearly 70,000 people reported romance scams, with losses totaling $1.3 billion. Many of these scammers falsely claim to be service members, targeting individuals who support the troops.
Scam Techniques
The scammers create profiles with photos of actual military members and develop an online dialogue. They often request cash for various reasons, such as food, medical bills, or to visit their supposed "romantic interest." Many claim to be stationed internationally, making their true location difficult to determine.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
Being vigilant and trusting your intuition can help you avoid falling victim to these scams. Here are some key tips:
1. Trust Your Intuition
Your body will warn you if something seems off. Listen to those warning signs.
2. Urgent or Rushed Requests
Be wary of urgent or rushed requests for money, especially those asking for digital transfers overseas. If someone insists on keeping the transaction a secret, that’s a red flag.
3. Face-to-Face Meetings
Avoid sending money to someone you haven’t met in person or to an individual you haven't vouched for through a mutual friend.
4. Artificial Deadlines
Be concerned if the scammer sets artificial deadlines to rush you into sending money.
5. Keep Secrets Private
If the scammer asks you not to tell anyone about the relationship or what you're about to do, that's another red flag.
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
If you suspect you have been the victim of a romance scam, take the following steps:
1. Cut Off All Communication
This can be difficult, but it's crucial. Don’t give in to the fraudster's promises; cut off all communication immediately.
2. Report to Your Financial Institution
File a report with your financial institution as soon as possible. The faster you act, the better your chances of recovery.
3. File a Complaint
File a complaint with to help fight back against the scammers.