Eureka Elder Scammed by Fake Federal Agents

Press release from the Eureka Police Department:

[Image from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department]

On June 11, 2026, the Eureka Police Department (EPD) responded to a report of fraud. During the investigation, it was determined that several unknown suspects contacted an elderly victim by telephone, falsely claiming to represent the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and were associated with government agencies. The suspects told the victim that they owed money and threatened arrest if payment was not made immediately. Believing the claims to be legitimate, the victim complied with the demands and provided a substantial amount of cash to an unknown individual. 

The Eureka Police Department would like to remind community members that government agencies will not demand payment over the phone, request cash payments, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or threaten immediate arrest for failure to pay. Scammers often target older adults by creating a sense of urgency and fear in an effort to obtain money or personal information. 

If you receive a suspicious phone call: 

• Do not provide personal, financial, or banking information. 
• Do not send money or make payments to unknown individuals. 
• Hang up and independently verify the caller by contacting the agency directly using a publicly listed phone number. 
• Consult with a trusted family member or friend before making any financial decisions. 

Anyone who believes they may have been the victim of a scam or fraud attempt should contact their local law enforcement agency as soon as possible to file a report. Reporting these incidents helps investigators identify patterns, track suspects, and educate the public about emerging scams. By remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activity, community members can help protect themselves and others from becoming victims of  fraud.