According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), scammers often pretend to contact you on behalf of the government. They might use a real name, like the Social Security Administration, the IRS, Medicare or make up a name that sounds official.
Scammers might also say you’re in trouble with the government, there’s a virus on your computer or there’s a problem with one of your accounts and you need to verify sensitive information. Avoid sharing information with someone who contacts you.
Often times, scammers want you to act before you think by using intimidation tactics, such as threatening to arrest or sue.
They may insist you send money through money transfer or by loading a gift card and sharing the card numbers. Remember to never send money to strangers.