FBI warns of fake websites impersonating its crime reporting center
- Recent FBI warnings highlight increasing cyber threats, particularly from fake websites impersonating legitimate sites.
- Scammers are exploiting people by creating sites that solicit payments and steal personal information.
- Users are urged to verify URLs directly and avoid using search engines to minimize the risk of falling for such scams.
In a recent advisory issued on September 19, 2025, the FBI highlighted the rising threat of fake websites impersonating legitimate government entities, specifically targeting its Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). This warning came in light of various scams that have proliferated over the past year, with malicious actors creating fraudulent sites that deceive citizens into providing sensitive information or financial payments. Initially, these scams have been associated with holiday discount sites and fake charities, but the new focus on IC3 underscores the adaptability of cybercriminals in exploiting people's trust in reputable organizations. The incident reflects a concerning trend wherein attackers are adept at mimicking professional entities, even the FBI itself. Members of the public seeking to report scams or recover lost funds may inadvertently find themselves on imitation websites, ultimately jeopardizing their personal information. The FBI's warning emphasizes the importance of directly entering URLs like www.ic3.gov into a browser instead of using search engines that may return sponsored results which lead to counterfeit sites. This guideline seeks to enhance user awareness and reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams. The FBI has also reinforced that under no circumstances will the IC3 demand payment for assistance in recovering lost funds nor would they refer victims to any third-party companies for this purpose. This point is critical as there have been numerous instances where impersonators have contacted victims claiming to be from law enforcement, demanding payment to avoid arrest or fines, which further complicates the landscape of internet fraud and identity theft. As attacks continue to evolve, the FBI encourages users to report any suspicious activity to its legitimate website. They stress that adhering to the established guidelines and remaining vigilant online are integral to personal security in the digital age. The ongoing rise in cyber threats continues to be an area of focus for the Bureau, as they are committed to safeguarding the public from these increasingly sophisticated scams, reminding users that a proactive approach is essential in mitigating risks associated with online activities.