Fake FDIC Websites

The FDIC OIG is warning banks and bank customers about schemes targeting consumers using fictitious FDIC websites. 

How Does it Work?

• Fraudsters impersonating the FDIC, FDIC OIG, or the FBI contact consumers stating their financial accounts were compromised and that officials at their financial institution are under investigation.
• Victims are asked to secure their funds and are directed to transfer money to a purported “FDIC-managed” secure account.
• Victims are then sent information through email with a link to a fictitious website that includes an “FDIC case number,” a point of contact, and login information.
• The fictious websites have FDIC somewhere in the name, and provide the victim with false account information displaying the funds provided.
• Fictitious FDIC websites may appear legitimate, with layouts similar to the official fdic.gov website, with the same color or fonts, but the URLs to these sites will not end in a .gov.

Red Flags:

• Someone contacting you stating your financial institution is under investigation.
• Being told not to contact law enforcement or your financial institution directly.
• Receiving a communication or link to a website URL from a non-government (.gov) email address.
• Being told to keep bank transactions private from bank employees or family members.
• Someone asking to be on the phone with you to direct what you say as you speak with bank personnel while visiting a bank branch.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Do not agree to make bank transfers or provide funds (cash, gold bars, digital currency) when contacted by an unknown individual.
• If you are unsure about whether or not an unsolicited phone call from an unknown individual claiming to be from the FDIC, FDIC OIG, or the FBI is legitimate, hang up and contact the agency directly using contact information from the official .gov website.
• Do not use any contact information provided by the unknown individual who contacted you (including visiting a website provided or contacting them using a phone number or text message provided by the unknown individual). 
• Do not give anyone your bank account credentials or PIN.
• Do not meet unknown individuals in person and never allow an unknown individual to visit your home or meet you at a bank branch.
• Stop communication immediately if an unknown individual asks for assistance with financial transactions.

If you suspect that you have been a victim of this type of scam, contact the FDIC OIG Hotline.