FTC warns scammers are impersonating its employees to steal money

The FTC warns of escalating government-impersonation scams targeting Americans via phone, email, and text, with rising median losses and FBI IC3 data showing billions in overall cybercrime impact; the agency outlines red flags (e.g., demands for crypto, gold, or cash handoffs), promotes reporting via ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and highlights its finalized Government and Business Impersonation Rule, while the FBI reiterates practical steps to avoid tech support and government impostor fraud.