ROME — Local police are warning residents about a sophisticated social security scam after seeing an increase in fraud cases where scammers pose as Amazon representatives and federal agents.
According to the Rome Police Department, victims receive calls from individuals claiming to be Amazon representatives who then transfer them to supposed federal law enforcement agents investigating compromised social security information.
The scammers use “spoofed” phone numbers that appear to be from FBI Headquarters (202-324-3000) or other Washington, D.C. area codes to make the calls seem legitimate.
Victims are instructed to withdraw money from their bank accounts—sometimes up to $50,000—allegedly to secure it in another location.
Law enforcement officials emphasize these calls are fraudulent and that legitimate officers never demand cash or gift cards from the public.
The FBI has classified this activity as government impersonation fraud, where criminals pretend to be government officials to collect money while threatening victims with physical or financial harm.
Authorities note the scammers are increasingly sophisticated and often target young people and the elderly.
Police advise residents to be cautious about answering calls from unknown numbers, never send money or gift cards to unfamiliar individuals, and avoid sharing personal information like banking details or Social Security numbers over the phone or internet.
Anyone who believes they have fallen victim to such a scam should contact local law enforcement and file a report with the FBI at www.ic3.gov.
