Here's how it usually starts: a text asking you to confirm a charge you don't recognize. Then a call from someone claiming to be with the FDIC, FTC, FBI, or iQ, saying your account has been compromised.
Some scammers have even sent members AI-generated photos, claiming they show a suspect tied to the fraud. It's a tactic designed to make the story feel real. From there, the pressure builds: withdraw cash, wire funds, or deposit money into an unfamiliar account, all to "protect" it.
No government agency, and no one from iQ, will ever ask you to do this.
The FDIC, NCUA, FBI, and FTC will never:
- Ask you to withdraw cash or wire money
- Ask for your passwords, PINs, or Social Security number
- Send a courier to collect cash, gold, or valuables
- Tell you to deposit cash into a cryptocurrency ATM
- Threaten you with arrest or legal action to get you to act fast
What to do:
- Stop. Hang up, and don't click any links in the message.
- Don't share personal information, withdraw cash, or send money.
- Verify. Call iQ directly, or use an agency's official site, to confirm what's real.
If you've already shared information or sent money, contact iQ right away at 360.695.3441, and consider filing a report with your local police department.
Questions or want to report suspicious activity? Call iQ at 360.695.3441. To verify FDIC communications directly, call 1-877-ASK-FDIC (1-877-275-3342).
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