FBI Warns of Evolving ‘Phantom Hacker’ Scams Targeting Savings

Unsolicited messages can lead to devastating financial loss

Americans are increasingly targeted by sophisticated scams that begin with a simple message but end with the complete depletion of life savings. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is issuing urgent warnings about these evolving “phantom hacker” attacks, which are now incorporating dangerous applications and impersonating trusted institutions.

The ‘Tech Support’ Ruse

These fraudulent schemes often commence with an unsolicited text, email, or popup message. Victims are prompted to contact a provided phone number, frequently claiming to be from their bank, for assistance with a supposed security breach. A significant threat involves being coerced into downloading applications that grant scammers remote access to your device and financial information. As one warning states, “It starts with an unsolicited message…and it ends with you losing your savings.”

Once connected, victims are guided through a process to “secure” their accounts. This typically involves installing remote access software. During this phase, the scammers meticulously monitor the victim’s banking activity, then instruct them to transfer funds to a supposedly secure account, which is actually controlled by the criminals.

Evolving Tactics and Government Impersonation

Beyond tech support scams, criminals are also impersonating government agencies like the DMV. Drivers are receiving texts claiming non-payment for traffic violations or DMV fees, urging them to click a link to resolve the issue. The FBI’s Boston field office recently alerted the public to this tactic, stating, “Don’t click the link and report the fraud.” These messages aim to steal financial and personal data.

“The threat is growing fast,” the bureau says, as citizens across the U.S. are contacted by their banks with messages urging them to “call tech support for assistance.” When you respond, you’re told your money is at immediate risk from a hacker who has broken into one of your devices, and that you will be guided through a process to keep it safe.

—FBI Warning

Drivers in our area have received text messages falsely claiming to be from the DMV requesting payment to resolve traffic violations or unpaid fees. In reality, it’s an attempt by criminals to access your financial & personal information. Don’t click the link and report the fraud.#fbisafety pic.twitter.com/22E11V8e1u

— FBI Boston (@FBIBoston) July 18, 2024

Key Safety Precautions

The paramount advice from law enforcement and financial institutions is to never engage with unsolicited messages. If contacted, under no circumstances should you download any software or grant remote access. Major banks, such as Bank of America, clearly state they will “never text, email, call, or visit you at your home asking for personal or account information.”

Even when a call appears to originate from a legitimate number, it’s crucial to hang up and independently verify. Scammers are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence to make their communications more convincing, including the creation of fake official documents and spoofed phone numbers. This advanced deception makes recognizing these scams more challenging.

Globally, these attacks are becoming more brazen, with reports from Europe detailing instances where scammers send accomplices posing as bank couriers to physically collect victims’ bank cards after a fraudulent call. These individuals may even instruct victims to damage the card, unknowingly allowing them to continue its use.

The FBI strongly advises a zero-tolerance policy for all unsolicited communications. By refusing to engage, individuals can effectively prevent themselves from becoming victims of these sophisticated financial frauds. If you do fall prey to such a scam, acting swiftly to report the incident to the involved financial services company is essential, as recovery might still be possible.