Online scams, like social engineering, use tactics to trick you into creating an ID.me account and verifying your identity using ID.me. These scammers often use your ID.me account to try and access government benefits and services such as the IRS and unemployment agencies. This article explains how to identify scams and what to do if you’ve been scammed.
How to identify scams
Scams frequently start through messages on social media, like Facebook or Instagram, from strangers you’ve never interacted with before. However, since scams aren’t always obvious, review the table below to help determine if you’re being scammed:
| Common scam | Example |
|---|---|
| Overstated promotions | “We have an amazing opportunity for you! Let’s chat so I can give you more details about this.” |
| Suspicious-looking links, odd content, or typos and grammatical errors | “Urgint - verify account by clicking hear”. In these cases, the link leads to a website that doesn’t end with .me, like id.me. |
| Urgent requests to avoid negative consequences | “Respond to this ASAP or you risk losing your benefits.” |
| Suspicious email address | The email says it’s coming from ID.me, but the address listed in the "from" line is not an @id.me email address. |
Official ID.me social media accounts
To avoid scammers, only communicate through official ID.me social media accounts listed below. Do not share personal information with anyone claiming to be ID.me from unauthorized accounts.
- Twitter: @IDme and @IDmeSupport
- Reddit: r/IDmeSupport with our verified account u/IDmeOfficial
I was scammed. What should I do?
If you believe you are a victim of a scam or social engineering:
1. Block and stop all communication
Immediately block and stop all communication with anyone you suspect is trying to, or has scammed you.
2. Report identity fraud
If you suspect your ID.me account may have been compromised, immediately contact ID.me Support to report suspected fraud.
3. Request a credit freeze
Consider placing a free credit freeze. A credit freeze makes it harder for someone to open a new credit card account in your name. If you place a freeze, be ready to take a few extra steps the next time you apply for a new credit card or cell phone – or any service that requires a credit check.
If you decide not to place a credit freeze, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit report. In the near future, check your credit report often for any unknown or suspicious activity.
4. Report identity theft to law enforcement
Consider reporting identity theft to law enforcement and/or the Federal Trade Commission at www.identitytheft.gov.