On September 3, the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) received information about scammers fraudulently claiming to be from the “Department of Financial Protection and Innovation” and using the same letterhead and logo of the DFPI.
The imposters appear to be targeting victims outside the United States through emails. They claim to be part of the DFPI’s “Global Anti-Scam Unit” and the “DFPI Global Fraud Unit.” The emails also refer to “DFPI Digital Forensics Experts.”
The imposters claim that they can assist in recovering “lost funds and assets.” The imposters also appear to be asking for personal information from victims, include information about accounts.
Although the DFPI does try to help victims of fraud, it does not have a “Global Fraud Unit” or a “Global Anti-Scam Unit,” and it does not have “Digital Forensic Experts” that can help you recover money lost to fraud.
The DFPI urges consumers to exercise extreme caution before responding to any solicitation offering investment or financial services, especially if they ask you to pay fees upfront before delivering a product or service or ask you to provide personal information including account information.
To check whether an investment or financial service provider is licensed in California, or to submit a complaint, consumers should visit the DFPI website at or call 1-866-275-2677.
Access the ‘Compliance Hotline’
Your League-member benefits include the Compliance Hotline — providing exclusive access to dedicated compliance experts:
Using the above phone number and email address, you can gain access to a knowledgeable team that’s ready to address all your credit union’s compliance inquiries — promptly and efficiently. With the Compliance Hotline, you can proactively respond to impromptu questions and issues by getting clarity and insight on technical topics that normally slow you down. We want to help you unlock the full potential of your League membership by leveraging the resources and support you need to navigate the complex world of compliance effortlessly. We’re ALWAYS just a phone call or email away!
Additionally, other League-member compliance resources include:
For more information, email Lisa Quaranta.
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