(INDIANAPOLIS) – Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita is warning Hoosiers to be alert to government imposter scams, which are being reported around the State.

Rokita says fraudsters are posing as government officials in order to induce fear in unsuspecting victims. He says his administration has revolutionized their investigation process to bring these con artists to justice. Rokita says at the same time, they want to help Hoosiers exercise due diligence to avoid falling prey to these schemes.

The scammers’ goal is to steal personal information and money. Awareness of their tactics is a key to protecting such assets. A recently reported complaint alleges a mail solicitation requested homeowners send money to receive a copy of their deed.

A government imposter scam frequently starts with an unsolicited text, call, mailing or fax from someone claiming to be from a government agency. Scammers often rely on publicly available information and provide what initially appear to be official documents or employee ID numbers to project an image of credibility.

Rokita reminds Hoosiers to pay close attention to any material you receive purported to be from government agencies. Remember to ask yourself some questions: Does the seal or name seem suspicious in any way? Does the mailing address appear legitimate, or is it a P.O. Box or an address for a third-party mailing company? What product or service exactly is being provided? Is there a disclaimer?

Be wary of callers who specifically ask you to pay fines by gift card, wire transfer or cryptocurrency. Look out for prerecorded calls from individuals posing as government agencies. If you suspect fraudulent activity, immediately terminate the communication and do not give any personal information.

If you have any questions you can call the Indiana Consumer Protection Division at 1-888-834-9969, or go on line. Click Here.