Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird is warning residents to stay alert as imposter scams continue to rise across the state.
Bird’s office recently released its list of top complaints and scams handled in 2025, with imposter scams ranking as the second most reported category. These scams include fake job offers, online shopping scams, romance scams, and criminals posing as government officials.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, scammers are increasingly targeting Iowans, particularly older residents. In some cases, scammers have even attempted to visit victims’ homes to collect money or valuables.
One recent case involved an older Iowan who was contacted by individuals claiming to represent the Federal Trade Commission. The scammers told the victim she was in serious legal trouble and would be arrested if she did not follow their instructions. They convinced her to cash out life insurance and annuities and purchase gold that would be delivered to the supposed agency to avoid arrest.
The scammers also warned the victim that she could lose her Social Security benefits if she did not comply and instructed her not to speak to anyone about the situation. They told her a courier would come to her home to pick up the gold once it was purchased.
For nearly two weeks, the scammers contacted the victim several times a day before family members became involved and stopped the scam before any money or valuables were handed over.
Attorney General Bird says scammers are becoming increasingly bold and manipulative.
She urges Iowans to be skeptical of unexpected calls or messages, especially those claiming to be from government agencies. Officials say legitimate agencies will not threaten immediate arrest, demand secrecy, or request payment through gift cards, payment apps, cryptocurrency, or gold.
Residents are also encouraged never to share personal or financial information over the phone or online and to avoid meeting anyone in person to deliver money or valuables.
Anyone who believes they may be involved in a scam or has been contacted by someone claiming to be a government official should contact their local law enforcement agency or the Iowa Attorney General’s Office. Iowans can call the office at 1-888-777-4590 or file a complaint online at the Iowa Attorney General’s website.