The FBI has issued a warning about the increasing personalization of cyber scammers, who may even go as far as sending physical messengers to your residence.

According to a recent warning issued by the federal law enforcement agency this week, scammers are utilizing couriers to unlawfully obtain cash and valuable items from individuals, specifically targeting unsuspecting seniors. These scams often involve impersonating government agencies or offering fake tech support services.

The initial step of the deception entails fraudsters pretending to be either “tech support” or officials from the U.S. government. They inform targets that their financial accounts have been compromised or are vulnerable to hacking, and that their assets must be safeguarded.

According to the FBI, those who fall victim to this scam are advised to convert their assets into cash or invest in valuable metals such as gold, silver, or other precious metals in order to safeguard their funds. In some cases, the scammers may even direct individuals to transfer their funds to a metal dealer who will then deliver the precious metals to their residence.

According to the agency, criminals will then organize for couriers to physically meet the victims, whether it be at their residence or a public place, in order to collect the money or valuable metals.

Individuals attempting to scam others may instruct them to verify the transaction by providing a passcode, such as the serial number of a US dollar bill, to the courier. Individuals who fall victim to scammers are promised that their assets will be protected in a secure account. However, in truth, the victims are never contacted again by the scammers and ultimately lose all of their funds.

According to the FBI, there was an increase in these incidents during the period of May to December 2023, resulting in total losses exceeding $55 million.

Authorities are warning that scammers often rely on the anonymity of the Internet or foreign locations, but using an in-person strategy is a new tactic for them. This marks a complete alteration in the playbook, and potential victims need to be aware of it.

Tips for safeguarding against tech-support scams

According to the FBI, the government and verified companies will never ask you to buy gold or any other valuable metals.

The agency advised individuals to safeguard their personal details. It is important to never reveal one’s residential address or agree to meet with unfamiliar individuals for the purpose of delivering money or valuable metals.

Additional suggestions provided by the FBI:

• Avoid clicking on any pop-ups that appear without your consent on your computer, as well as links or attachments sent through text messages or emails.
• Refrain from contacting any unfamiliar phone numbers provided in pop-ups, texts, or emails.
• Do not download software at the request of strangers who reach out to you.
• Do not grant access to your computer to unknown individuals.