The Rise of Impersonation Scams in 2025

August Scam of the Month

Impersonation scams are becoming more advanced and more believable. Scammers pretend to be someone you trust to trick you into sending money, revealing personal information, or clicking malicious links. With deepfakes, spoofed numbers, and stolen data, the risks have never been higher.

What is an Impersonation Scam?

When a fraudster pretends to be a trusted figure such as a government official, business representative, or loved one to deceive you. These scams come in many forms, often tailored to your specific life or situation using data gathered online.

How They Trick You

Scammers use technology and emotional pressure to catch you off guard. Common tactics include:

  • Spoofed phone numbers appearing as banks, IRS, or local police

  • Email impersonation of executives or IT support

  • Social media messages pretending to be friends or family

  • Deepfake videos or audio mimicking real people

  • Emergency stories (like arrests, accidents, or urgent bills)

  • "Verification" links that steal login credentials

Most Common Types of Impersonation Scams

  1. Government Imposters

    “Your Social Security number has been suspended.” These scammers demand payment or personal information to “fix” the issue. They often impersonate the IRS, SSA, or DHS.

  2. Business Email Compromise (BEC)
    An email looks like it’s from your boss, asking you to wire money or send employee W-2s. But it’s a scammer using a lookalike domain or hacked account.

  3. Family or Romance Scams
    A loved one is in trouble overseas and needs money urgently. Or someone you met online suddenly needs financial help. These deeply personal scams play on emotion.

  4. Tech Support Scams
    A pop-up or call tells you there’s a virus on your computer. The “support” agent offers help—if you give them remote access or payment information.

Frequently Impersonated Organizations

These brands are popular targets because they’re widely recognized and frequently trusted.

  • Microsoft

  • USPS

  • Amazon

  • Publishers Clearing House

  • Norton

Real Consequences

Falling for an impersonation scam can have lasting impacts:

  • Financial loss

  • Identity theft

  • Compromised business data or systems

  • Emotional distress or loss of trust in institutions

  • Potential legal exposure in cases of data mishandling

How to Protect Yourself

  • Pause and verify. Don’t act on fear. Hang up or stop messaging—and verify through a known, trusted number or contact.

  • Check email addresses and URLs carefully for typos or inconsistencies.

  • Don’t share sensitive information over text, email, or unexpected calls.

  • Enable two-factor authentication on all important accounts.

  • Educate coworkers and family, scammers often target the unaware.

  • Be cautious with job offers or online relationships that move fast or ask for money.

  • Keep your device security software up to date.

Where to Report?

If you suspect you’ve been a victim of this type of scam, report any suspicious activity to your financial institution so they can monitor your accounts and help safeguard your money and personal information. Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online or call 1-877-438-4338. Use the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center to file a complaint.

Scam of the MonthBrianna Glose