Fake FBI/Interpol/NSA cybercrime arrest warrant scam — your IP linked to illegal activity/cybercrime/child porn + arrest warrant issued + pay Bitcoin/wire transfer to clear your name + do not contact a lawyer

Law enforcement impersonation scam — one of the most psychologically effective fraud formats because it exploits fear of criminal prosecution. Victims receive emails purportedly from the FBI Cyber Crime Division, Interpol, NSA, or a national cybercrime police unit, claiming their IP address has been linked to illegal activities: cybercrime, money laundering, accessing prohibited websites, or child pornography. The email demands payment (typically $1,000–$5,000) via Bitcoin, gift cards, wire transfer, or prepaid cards to "clear the warrant," "settle the case," or avoid "federal arrest." A critical red flag phrase that appears in nearly every variant: "do not contact a lawyer" — because anyone who speaks to a lawyer would immediately recognize this as a scam. Key facts: (1) No US, UK, or international law enforcement agency sends emails demanding cryptocurrency payment to avoid prosecution; (2) Law enforcement executes warrants through physical appearance — they do not give you 24 hours to pay; (3) Child pornography accusations are specifically chosen to maximize shame and prevent victims from reporting or seeking help; (4) Real cybercrime investigations result in grand jury subpoenas and formal indictments, not email ultimatums. The FBI explicitly states on ic3.gov that it never demands payment to resolve criminal investigations. Report these emails to ic3.gov. FTC 2024: government impersonation scams caused $500M+ in losses.