Share

Illustration of a text conversation on a mobile phone. The...

‘False Alarm, Real Scam’

The FTC warns about a new imposter fraud trend: first, they scare you, then they steal.

By Doug Segrest | August 27, 2025

We’ve got trouble on Line 1. Maybe it’s an urgent email or a flashing message on your computer screen. Regardless, be aware of this trending imposter scam that we call the false alarm.

It starts with a scammer alerting you that there’s a big problem needing immediate attention. They may say someone’s using your accounts to commit problems. Or there’s something wrong with your computer.

The stories are fake. But the real panic starts if you fall for it. That’s why the FTC dubs this the “False alarm, real scam.” More recently, the FBI issued this warning.

“The trusted partner or imposter scam is extremely difficult to detect,” said Jeff Taylor, head of Commercial Fraud Forensics at Regions Bank. “Implementing the tips provided by FTC may help keep you from becoming a victim.”

Unfortunately, seniors are falling for this at an alarming rate.

According to the FTC, adults 60 and over are losing huge amounts of money (in excess of $100,000) to these scams.

And it all starts with an urgent message and a made-up crisis as simple as saying your computer is infected.

Once they’ve got you on the hook, they’ll offer a suggestion: they’ll send their “agent” to help you. Of course, that’s just another criminal trying to get access to your account and your information – or to entice you to move money quickly, before you realize you’re being scammed.

FTC Tips on Preventing False Alarm Scams

Don’t move money to “protect” it in response to an unexpected call or message. That’s a scam.
Hang up and verify with the real company or agency — but use a number or website you know is real.
Block unwanted calls to help stop scammers before they reach you.

Share this information with your co-workers, friends and family. At Regions, we believe the first step to fighting fraud is through education. These false alarms are intended to scare us into complying quickly. But knowing this ahead of time can help keep you safe.
Kimberly Reece, Financial Crimes Customer Advocacy Manager for Regions

Asian American senior woman sitting at a computer with a concerned look on her face. An illustrated red exclamation mark if coming off the top right of the computer.