Did you receive a message from someone claiming to be a lawyer or an expert? It could be a scam!
Important: Only individuals who have received an official notice or invitation letter from FinCEN are eligible to submit a refund application.
Scammers often pretend to represent the U.S. government when contacting you. They may reach out by phone, text message, email, U.S. Mail, or social media. They might claim to be lawyers or hacker experts, even using the names of current or former FinCEN employees, or send you messages or emails that appear to come from a fund recovery effort. Scammers will pressure you to send money or provide personal information. They may demand payments for alleged violations of anti-money laundering laws or outstanding debts.
FinCEN urges everyone to exercise caution when receiving any unsolicited communication from individuals or entities claiming to be from FinCEN. FinCEN provides the following guidance:
How FinCEN Contacts the Public:
- Official invitation letters or written notices: Sent via mail, text message, or official email.
- Officially stated contact details: Including verified WhatsApp numbers, email addresses, or website links listed in official letters.
- Legitimate claim submission or inquiries: Only through formal notifications you have received.
- Presentation of credentials or official documents: FinCEN officials will provide identification or documents to confirm their legitimate authority.
Risk Advisory
- Do not trust “funds recovery” advertisements posted on social media, messaging platforms, or comment sections;
- Do not transfer money or disclose personal information to strangers or unverified organizations;
- If you have been affected by such fraud, retain all evidence and seek help only through official channels.
Official Guidance
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) hereby advises victims:
- FinCEN has lawfully seized certain assets related to fraudulent schemes;
- Victims may verify their eligibility and submit case information through the official FinCEN website or other recognized financial regulatory channels;
- Only individuals who have received an official notification or invitation letter from FinCEN may submit a recovery application. For more details, please contact us via WhatsApp: +1 (984) 382-3156;
- FinCEN will continue to coordinate with relevant law enforcement agencies to trace illicit fund flows and take measures to safeguard victims’ accounts and financial security;
- All victim information and submitted documentation will be kept strictly confidential and will not be disclosed.
Important Statement
Investment losses are the result of fraudulent conduct by criminals and are not the fault of victims. FinCEN reiterates:
- Legitimate assistance channels are always free, safe, and official;
- The public should remain vigilant and avoid secondary losses caused by fraudulent “fund recovery” services.