FBI warns: Scammers are impersonating your "doctor"—what to watch out for
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These days, it’s easy to feel like we’re always connected.
A quick call or text can bring updates from our doctor, a family member, or even our pharmacy.
But what if the caller ID shows a familiar number—and it turns out to be a scam?
A new warning from the FBI reveals that scammers are becoming more convincing than ever, and they’re targeting people across the country with a tactic that could trick even the most careful among us.
It's a reminder that staying alert is just as important as staying connected.
The FBI is raising the alarm about a growing scheme in which scammers pretend to be trusted professionals—doctors, police officers, or even federal agents.
Using a method called "spoofing," these callers make it look like they’re calling from a legitimate number, such as a hospital or law enforcement agency.
In one variation of the scam, the call appears to come from a medical clinic.
The caller claims that a surgery insurance claim has been filed in your name in China.
When you respond with confusion, the call is transferred to someone pretending to be a Chinese police officer, who says your identity is involved in insurance fraud.
They may then demand money to “resolve” the issue.
To make things even more believable, some scammers go as far as appearing in uniform on video calls or using convincing backdrops.
They may even suggest continuing the conversation on encrypted apps or messaging platforms.
Unfortunately, these scams can come with steep financial consequences.
In one case, a victim lost $23,000 after believing they were speaking with real law enforcement.
Cybersecurity experts warn that the combination of pressure, urgency, and impersonation makes these scams especially dangerous.
The San Francisco police have reported a rise in these types of fraud, especially targeting Chinese-speaking individuals—but the FBI stresses that anyone can be a target.
This isn’t an isolated case.
Scammers have also been impersonating banks, federal agents, and even the FBI itself—sending forged emails that include official-looking photos and seals to convince people they’re real.
The FBI emphasizes that no legitimate agency will ever call to demand payment or threaten arrest.
If you receive such a call, hang up immediately.
As these scams become more advanced, often using artificial intelligence and other tools, here are some simple reminders to help protect yourself:
If someone claiming to be your doctor suddenly starts talking about wire transfers or legal trouble, it’s a clear sign to hang up. These scammers are clever—but staying informed is your best defense.
Read next: This woman was left with “nothing in the fridge” after a $500,000 scam–Don’t be next.
We invite you to join the conversation. Have you encountered a similar scam? Do you have tips for staying vigilant? Share your stories and advice in the comments below. Together, we can protect one another by spreading awareness and standing up to digital threats.
A quick call or text can bring updates from our doctor, a family member, or even our pharmacy.
But what if the caller ID shows a familiar number—and it turns out to be a scam?
A new warning from the FBI reveals that scammers are becoming more convincing than ever, and they’re targeting people across the country with a tactic that could trick even the most careful among us.
It's a reminder that staying alert is just as important as staying connected.
Scammers are now using familiar-looking caller IDs to impersonate trusted professionals—making it more important than ever to stay alert. Image Source: Pexels / Photo By: Kaboompics.com.
A scam that feels personal
The FBI is raising the alarm about a growing scheme in which scammers pretend to be trusted professionals—doctors, police officers, or even federal agents.
Using a method called "spoofing," these callers make it look like they’re calling from a legitimate number, such as a hospital or law enforcement agency.
In one variation of the scam, the call appears to come from a medical clinic.
The caller claims that a surgery insurance claim has been filed in your name in China.
When you respond with confusion, the call is transferred to someone pretending to be a Chinese police officer, who says your identity is involved in insurance fraud.
They may then demand money to “resolve” the issue.
To make things even more believable, some scammers go as far as appearing in uniform on video calls or using convincing backdrops.
They may even suggest continuing the conversation on encrypted apps or messaging platforms.
Also read: Alert: Scammers impersonating US Marshals—how to avoid falling victim!
A high cost for misplaced trust
Unfortunately, these scams can come with steep financial consequences.
In one case, a victim lost $23,000 after believing they were speaking with real law enforcement.
Cybersecurity experts warn that the combination of pressure, urgency, and impersonation makes these scams especially dangerous.
The San Francisco police have reported a rise in these types of fraud, especially targeting Chinese-speaking individuals—but the FBI stresses that anyone can be a target.
Also read: Discover the smart scam alert that could protect your bank account!
The broader scam landscape
This isn’t an isolated case.
Scammers have also been impersonating banks, federal agents, and even the FBI itself—sending forged emails that include official-looking photos and seals to convince people they’re real.
The FBI emphasizes that no legitimate agency will ever call to demand payment or threaten arrest.
If you receive such a call, hang up immediately.
Also read: Retiree loses $280,000 in costly scam—are your finances safe?
How to stay protected
As these scams become more advanced, often using artificial intelligence and other tools, here are some simple reminders to help protect yourself:
- Stay calm and don’t rush to respond.
- Be cautious of any caller demanding money, cryptocurrency, or gift cards.
- Do not return or keep unexpected money without verifying with your bank.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or engaging with people who contact you unexpectedly.
- Never allow remote access to your device unless you are absolutely sure who you’re speaking with.
- Be careful when using ATMs—do not accept help from strangers.
- Ignore any messages that claim you’ve won a prize that requires payment to claim.
- Use trusted sources to verify any urgent or unexpected communication.
If someone claiming to be your doctor suddenly starts talking about wire transfers or legal trouble, it’s a clear sign to hang up. These scammers are clever—but staying informed is your best defense.
Read next: This woman was left with “nothing in the fridge” after a $500,000 scam–Don’t be next.
We invite you to join the conversation. Have you encountered a similar scam? Do you have tips for staying vigilant? Share your stories and advice in the comments below. Together, we can protect one another by spreading awareness and standing up to digital threats.
