Phoenix, AZ – The FBI has launched a nationwide campaign, “Take A Beat,” aimed at raising public awareness of the various frauds and scams affecting communities across the country. This initiative seeks to educate citizens on how to recognize and avoid scams, offering tips on prevention and how to report fraud to protect others.
Scammers frequently use tactics that create a false sense of urgency, isolation, or trust. They often employ emotional manipulation—instilling fear, empathy, or promises of financial gain, companionship, or job opportunities—to push victims into quick action. The “Take A Beat” campaign urges the public to pause and reflect before making any decisions, giving them time to properly assess the situation.
According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), losses from fraud and scams in the first five months of 2024 have reached $1.6 billion, an increase of nearly $300 million compared to the same period last year.
“The FBI is committed to bringing to justice those who prey on others for personal gain,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Jose A. Perez. “Our goal is to help individuals protect themselves and to hold criminals accountable for their actions.”
To help safeguard personal information and prevent fraud, the FBI advises the public to:
- Protect personal and financial information and monitor accounts for suspicious activity.
- Be wary of unsolicited phone calls, mailings, and door-to-door offers.
- Verify the legitimacy of unknown sources by searching online for contact information and checking business reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau.
- Never share personal information, money, checks, gift cards, or wire transfers with unverified individuals or businesses.
If you or someone you know may have been a victim of a scam, contact your local FBI office or file a complaint at ic3.gov. Be sure to document details such as the scammer’s name, methods of contact, payment methods, and descriptions of interactions.
For more information on common scams, visit fbi.gov/scams, and to access the latest trends and statistics, visit ic3.gov.
For further updates, contact the FBI Phoenix office.
