In their August 4, 2022 Consumer Alert, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that scammers have been calling as individuals from the FTC and may ask for information, demand bank account access, the transfer of money through MoneyGram or Western Union, that funds be put onto gift cards, or even the purchase of cryptocurrency to avoid arrest or in regards to winning a prize.   Scammers may state cooperation is needed for a fine or avoid jail.  They may also say they are calling in regards to an Amazon balance; however, even if they give the name of one of the FTC Commissioners or Chair, the FTC wants you to know it’s a scam.  The FTC doesn’t call, text, email, or post anything on social media asking for money nor threaten someone with arrest.  They advise never to pay anyone money who contacts you this way.  Never give someone access to your bank account and never buy gift cards, wire funds, send cash, or buy cryptocurrency for anyone claiming to be from the FTC, even if the caller provides a “badge number.”  Just don’t pay them. Instead, report the incident to the FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov. 

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To see more on their Consumer Alert: FTC Commissioners aren’t calling you — really | Consumer Advice