Scam alertUS
“Your Identity Is Linked to an Investigation” Text Scam
Posted 3 Sep 2026
A wave of scam texts is hitting US phones with wording like: “URGENT: Your identity has been linked to an ongoing investigation. Contact the assigned verification department at [number] to prevent further action.” The callback number is usually a toll-free (800/888) line, and the specific number changes constantly — the recognisable part is the message.
It’s a law-enforcement / government-impersonation scam. Call, and a fake “officer” or “verification department” tells you your identity or Social Security number is tied to a crime, then pressures you to “verify” by handing over personal details — or to move money to a “safe” account to “clear your name.” No real agency works this way.
What to Do
- Don’t call the number and don’t reply — engaging just confirms your number is live and invites more.
- No agency (the FBI, FTC, Social Security, or police) texts you about an “investigation” or asks you to call to “verify” your identity.
- Never share your SSN, bank, or card details, and never move money to “protect” or “clear” your name.
- Delete it, then report: forward the text to 7726 (SPAM), and file at reportfraud.ftc.gov or ic3.gov.