Do You Know Them? FBI Chicago Warns Of 'Fake Agents' Stealing Money, Personal Information

CHICAGO — The Chicago Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is warning the public about individuals claiming to be federal law enforcement in attempts to defraud victims of money and personally identifiable information.

FBI Chicago on Friday released photos of two people suspected of being connected to the scheme, and authorities are seeking the public’s help in identifying them.

"Criminals who commit these crimes leave lasting harm that reaches far beyond financial losses," said FBI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Douglas S. DePodesta. "By posing as law enforcement, they erode the very trust our agencies require when working to protect and serve the public. The FBI and our partners will pursue all available avenues to hold offenders accountable and ensure that those who participate in these schemes are brought to justice."

Fraudsters posing as law enforcement have been known to contact unsuspecting members of the public and claim that they are suspects or victims of a fraud investigation. The communications typically occur via text message, phone, or email and offenders are not always located within the United States. Recent reports detail that offenders have been known to create fraudulent scenarios, to include posing as bank employees who claim to be working alongside legitimate FBI agents, to gather a victim's personal and financial information.

The FBI urges the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution when communicating with anyone who claims to be federal law enforcement. Federal authorities will never ask for money or personal identifying information when contacting victims or suspects of crime online or over the phone, authorities said. If you, or someone you know, receives a call, text, or email from someone claiming to be a federal law enforcement agent, do not provide information or money in any form, including credit cards or prepaid cards.

FBI Chicago reminds the public of additional guidance:

• Be suspicious of any unsolicited calls, texts, and emails.
• Follow your gut: if an unknown individual is making statements that don’t sound factual, or if they’re pressuring you to act immediately, end all communications and save them for record.
• If claims raise concern, verify the information independently by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency, bank, or company with the contact information publicly known, and not provided by a scammer.
• Be wary of providing money and/or personal information to someone with whom you did not initiate contact or have independent and direct affiliation.

If you recognize these two suspects, or to report instances of fraud like this, the public can file a report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov or contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), or online at tips.fbi.gov. Tipsters may remain anonymous.