FTC Warns Scammers Are Threatening to Deactivate Phone Numbers

Oct 22, 2026 1 min read All South Florida Money & Consumer Alerts

Quick answer

In an October 22 alert, the FTC says scammers posing as FTC officials claim a phone registered in your name is being used for scams abroad, threaten to deactivate your number, and later demand money — a real FTC employee will never do any of that.

The Federal Trade Commission issued a consumer alert on Thursday, October 22 about a new twist on government impersonation. A caller claiming to be an FTC official — complete with a fake badge ID — says a phone registered under your name and number is being used to commit scams in another country, and threatens to deactivate your number if you do not cooperate. The caller then transfers you to a fake police officer to file a "report," collects your ID and personal information, and insists you keep it secret. A later call claims you face arrest unless you send money for a security deposit.

None of it is true. The FTC says a real employee will never ask you to send money, threaten to disconnect your phone, demand secrecy, or text you a photo of an ID badge. Why it matters: the script is built to panic parents and grandparents into acting fast. Hang up, and report the call at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.