Scammer Claims FBI Investigation, Tricks 81-Year-Old Into Sending $4,000

JOHNSTON COUNTY — An 81-year-old man says he lost $4,000 after falling victim to a scam involving a fake text message claiming to be from Amazon.

The man told authorities he received a text message that appeared to be from Amazon, warning him about suspicious activity on his account. The message instructed him to call a phone number to resolve the issue.

When he called, the person who answered claimed that his Amazon account had been used to purchase a $1,900 iPhone. The scammer then escalated the situation, telling the man the phone had been used to buy bomb-making materials and that the FBI was investigating him for possible involvement.

Fearing legal trouble, the victim was instructed to withdraw money and deposit $4,000 into a Bitcoin machine to “secure” his account and resolve the investigation. Believing he was protecting himself, the man followed the instructions and sent the funds.

After completing the transaction, he realized the situation was a scam and contacted local law enforcement.

Authorities say the case is part of a growing trend of impersonation scams in which criminals pose as well-known companies such as Amazon. In many cases, scammers send text messages or emails claiming there is a problem with a purchase or account. Victims are urged to call a number where they are pressured into sending money, often through cryptocurrency kiosks, gift cards, or wire transfers.

Law enforcement officials stress that legitimate companies like Amazon do not request payments through Bitcoin machines or similar methods, nor do they threaten arrest over the phone. Federal agencies such as the FBI also do not collect money to clear someone from an investigation.

Residents are encouraged to avoid clicking on links or calling numbers provided in unsolicited messages. Instead, they should contact companies directly using official websites or customer service numbers. Anyone who believes they may have been targeted by a scam is urged to contact their local law enforcement agency immediately.

Authorities continue to remind the public, especially senior citizens, to be cautious of urgent messages demanding immediate payment.