FBI Warns of Chinese-Language Phone Scam Targeting US Residents

The FBI has issued a warning about a new phone and video scam targeting Chinese-speaking residents across the United States.

The elaborate operation impersonates both US health insurance providers and Chinese law enforcement officers to extort money from victims under the guise of investigating fraudulent medical claims.

According to a Public Service Announcement by the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), the scheme begins with a phone call—often in Mandarin or Cantonese. The caller claims to represent a legitimate US health insurer and warns that a suspicious insurance claim or medical bill has been filed in the victim’s name.

A scam designed to exploit language and authority

To make the ruse believable, the fraudsters may share their screen or send fake invoices and documents. When the target insists the claim is false, the call is transferred to someone posing as a Chinese police officer or government official. The second scammer accuses the victim of involvement in financial crimes and demands immediate payment to “avoid extradition” or legal action.

In extreme cases, the scammers convince victims to download video software and remain visible on camera around the clock for “monitoring.” This psychological manipulation traps victims as virtual hostages—isolated, fearful, and compliant.

The FBI notes that the operation specifically targets ethnic Chinese residents who may feel more comfortable conversing in their native language or fear legal repercussions from Chinese authorities. Scammers exploit cultural nuances and mimic official procedures to intensify the illusion of legitimacy.

How the scam works

• Step 1: The call — Victims receive a call in Mandarin or Cantonese from a spoofed US phone number claiming to be their health insurance provider.
• Step 2: The evidence — Scammers show fake invoices or claim forms through screen sharing or email.
• Step 3: The escalation — The call is transferred to a “Chinese official” who accuses the victim of criminal activity.
• Step 4: The pressure — Victims are told to transfer money, share personal data, or remain under video supervision.

The FBI urges anyone who receives such calls to avoid engaging, collect as much identifying information as possible (phone number, screenshots, names used), and report it immediately via IC3.gov.

A broader shift in cybercrime

This type of social engineering reflects an evolution in cybercrime: rather than relying on malware or hacking tools, criminals now predominantly use psychological tactics—trust, fear, and a sense of urgency—to manipulate victims directly.

According to the 2025 Bitdefender Consumer Cybersecurity Survey, approximately 1 in 7 consumers worldwide say they fell victim to a scam in the past year. And 25% of those scams took place over the phone, our study showed.

How to stay safe from health insurance impersonation scams

To protect yourself and others:

1. Verify independently

If someone claims to represent your insurance provider or a law enforcement agency, hang up and call back using the number printed on your card or listed on the organization’s website. Never trust a callback number provided by the caller.

2. Never send money or personal data under pressure

Legitimate institutions never threaten deportation or arrest, demand payment via wire transfer, or ask for sensitive data such as login credentials over the phone.

3. Refuse video or remote-access requests

If you’re asked to install video or remote-control apps for “verification,” end the call immediately! Criminals use these tools to spy on victims and exert further pressure, or access personal information.

4. Secure your devices

Protect your phone and computer with reputable security software, keep your operating system and apps updated, and use strong, unique passwords with multi-factor authentication.

5. Spread awareness

Talk to family members — especially those who prefer to communicate in other languages — about these scams. A quick conversation can prevent serious emotional and financial harm.

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