Would an FBI agent text me?

Would an FBI Agent Text Me?

Receiving a text message supposedly from an FBI agent can be jarring and concerning. You may wonder if the message is real or some kind of scam. In most cases, text messages purporting to be from FBI agents are not legitimate.

The FBI generally does not initiate contact with individuals by text message. Any text claiming to be from an FBI agent is likely a fraudulent attempt to obtain money or information.

Common FBI and Law Enforcement Impersonation Scams

Some common text scams involving fake FBI agents or other law enforcement include^[1]:

• Texts threatening arrest unless fines or fees are paid immediately.
• Texts requesting sensitive personal information for a supposed investigation.
• Texts instructing you to click links or call numbers that could install malware.

These texts use intimidation and urgency to trick recipients.

How Real FBI Agents Make Contact

The FBI has established procedures for contacting individuals, which do not involve unsolicited texts^[2]:

• In-person visits by FBI agents or other law enforcement.
• Phone calls, usually to request voluntary interviews.
• Formal letters sent by mail.

Initial contacts are almost always in-person or by phone, not text.

When Texts from the FBI May Be Legitimate

There are some limited instances where FBI texts could potentially be legitimate^[3]:

• Texts to established confidential informants.
• Undercover agents texting criminal targets.
• Ongoing text conversations with witnesses.

However, these are rare exceptions in limited circumstances.

How to Verify Suspicious Texts

If you receive a suspicious text claiming to be from the FBI, you should^[4]:

• Not reply to the text.
• Call your local FBI field office to verify.
• Report the text to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

The FBI encourages reporting any suspected fraudulent texts for investigation.

What to Do if You Get a Suspicious Text

If you receive a text supposedly from the FBI, you should^[5]:

• Not click any links or call numbers provided.
• Not give out any personal information.
• Block the sender and delete the texts.
• File an FBI complaint if fraud is suspected.

It’s important not to engage with potential scammers posing as FBI agents.

Conclusion

Unsolicited texts from supposed FBI agents are nearly always scams. The FBI does not initially contact people by text. Verify any suspicious texts before responding.

How to Verify an FBI Text

If you receive a text claiming to be from the FBI, you can take steps to verify it:

• Call the FBI field office – Ask to speak to the agent and verify their identity.
• Visit FBI.gov – Look up the phone number for the field office and call it.
• Contact your lawyer – Have your attorney reach out to the FBI office on your behalf.
• Request written verification – Ask the agent to send a formal letter on FBI letterhead.

Taking initiative to directly verify the text provides confidence in its legitimacy.

When Texts May Be Legitimate

There are some circumstances where FBI texts could potentially be real:

• Ongoing investigations – Agents may text witnesses or informants.
• Undercover operations – Texts can help build rapport with targets.
• Follow-up to interviews – Providing contact information.

However, the FBI still prefers more formal means of communication when possible.

If You Receive a Legitimate Text

If an FBI text does prove to be legitimate, important next steps include:

• Carefully reviewing any requests or instructions.
• Consulting a lawyer before responding if applicable.
• Following up by phone to clarify if needed.
• Keeping records of all communications.

Thoughtfully verifying and responding to any FBI contact can help protect your interests.