Resources
We hear and read stories on almost a daily basis of the scams aimed at taking the hard earned money folks across the country worked a lifetime to save. Our Bipartisan Congressional Task Force to Combat Identity Theft and Fraud is committed to finding solutions to protect your personal security and punish the scammers and fraudsters who commit these crimes. This bipartisan task force will also be a resource to identify and share with you effective practices to prevent identity theft and fraud and keep you informed about the threats facing many Americans. Please know you can always contact our bipartisan task force to share your story, report a scam, and more.
If you suspect you've been the victim of a scam or identity theft...
You are not alone. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to talk about it with someone you trust, such as a family member or local law enforcement. However, it is important to act, for doing nothing could only make your situation more difficult. Use the below resources and turn to the appropriate authority, such as local police or your bank:
RESOURCES AND INFORMATION
THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)
A non-investigative federal agency that collects information about ongoing scams to share with law enforcement.
1-877-382-4357 • www.ftc.gov
1-877-438-4338 • www.consumer.ftc.gov
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (FBI) INTERNET CRIME COMPLAINT CENTER
The complaint center within the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Call or visit the below websites to report Internet fraud, file a complaint, or read the latest warnings.
www.ic3.gov
FBI Internet Crime Prevention Tips
FBI Internet Crime Scheme Alerts
U.S. POSTAL INSPECTION SERVICE (USPIS)
The federal law enforcement arm of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Call or visit the below websites to report identity theft or scams that involve U.S. mail.
1-800-275-8777 • postalinspectors.uspis.gov
USPIS Mail Fraud Complaint Assistant
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, ADMINISTRATION ON COMMUNITY LIVING
This is the federal agencies which brings together aspects of the Administration on Aging, the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, and the HHS Office on Disability and responsible for community support for older Americans and individuals of all ages with disabilities. Contact this organization for more information on elder services and assistance in your area.
1-800-677-1116 • www.eldercare.gov
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION FRAUD HOTLINE
This agency is responsible for responding to the various Social Security needs of the American people. Contact this organization to report theft or fraudulent use of your Social Security Number.
1-800-269-0271 • www.ssa.gov
OFFICE OF THE IOWA ATTORNEY GENERAL - CONSUMER PROTECTION DIVISION
This division of the Iowa Attorney General's Office protects Iowa consumers from fraud, educates consumers about current scams and how to keep from becoming a victim and, ensures fair marketplace competition.
1-888-777-4590 • www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/for-consumers