Impersonation Scam
Last reviewed: 2026-01-03
An impersonation scam occurs when a fraudster pretends to be a trusted person or organization to trigger compliance. The impersonated identity might be a family member, bank, employer, government agency, contractor, or aid organization. Impersonation scams often involve urgency, secrecy, or authority language. SAF guidance is consistent: stop, think, and verify using a second channel that the impersonator cannot control.