DEFENDERS: Scammers using FBI phone number to trick victims

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The FBI is warning the public about a telephone scam that is making it's way around.

The FBI says scammers are using the FBI's real telephone number to trick victims.

In this latest scam, the scammers say the victim's social security number was stolen and used to purchase property, stocks, and open bank accounts in the victim's name. To keep the victim's money safe, the scammers gave instructions on how to wire the victim's life savings to the "FBI" for safekeeping.

A St. Louis County victim was scammed out of more than $100,000. The scammers posed as special agents from an FBI satellite office of the FBI Kansas City Division.

Special Agent in Charge Timothy Langan of the FBI Kansas City Division said in a news release, "These are old scams that keep evolving with a new twist," he said. "Please remember, the FBI will never ask/demand money for any reason. When someone asks you for your money (especially through a wire transfer) be suspicious and verify the legitimacy of the request."

The FBI says since spoofed phone numbers belong to a legitimate agency, organization, or business, make sure to take another step to confirm the request's legitimacy.

Scammers will do what they can to make sure you act fast to their request. The FBI says a legitimate caller will encourage you to take the time to verify.

If you are a victim of a phone or an online scam, you can file an online complaint here.