FBI Warns of Rising Banking Spoof Scam Targeting Customers

The FBI has issued a warning about a surge in banking spoof calls where scammers impersonate bank officials or law enforcement to trick victims into transferring money. Jennifer Lichthardt, a victim from Elgin, Illinois, lost $40,000 after receiving a call that appeared to come from Chase's fraud department. The scammers had access to her account details, convincing her to move funds to a 'secured' account. This type of scam is part of a broader trend, with over 191,000 phishing complaints reported in 2025, resulting in losses exceeding $215 million. Experts advise consumers to ignore unsolicited requests for money transfers or access to accounts. Chase Bank has reiterated that legitimate companies will never ask for such actions through calls or texts.

Key Points: • Scammers impersonate bank officials and law enforcement to steal money. • Victims are often convinced to transfer funds to 'secured' accounts. • In 2025, over 191,000 phishing complaints led to losses of more than $215 million.