Messages & accounts
The official threatening to deactivate your number
A caller claiming to be from the FTC says a phone registered in your name is being used for crimes. A fake badge number, a transfer to a supposed police officer and instructions for finding a planted callback number make the story seem verified.
What they want
Your identification and other personal information, followed by a so-called security deposit to avoid arrest or travel to another country.
YOUR NEXT MOVE
Check through another route.
End the call. Don’t follow the caller’s search or callback instructions; contact the agency through its independently verified website. The FTC doesn’t demand money, threaten to disconnect your phone or tell you to keep the call secret.
Already responded?
Stop contact and ask someone you trust for help. If you paid or exposed account details, contact the affected service through its official channel.
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