1 of 2 | FBI Director Kash Patel pictured last month at Department of Justice headquarters in Washington, D.C. On Monday, Patel stated federal officials believe scammers "were banking on the fact that you'll feel too embarrassed to come forward and report the crime to the FBI," encouraging those to "don't let them win." File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 8 (UPI) -- The FBI warned Americans Monday to guard against holiday scams as fraudsters weaponize artificial intelligence and use pressure tactics to steal from consumers.
"If you feel pressured to act fast, pay money, or turn over personal information -- take a beat. Stop and assess if what you're being told is real. Talk to your families. Protect each other from scams," stated FBI Director Kash Patel.
Federal Bureau of Investigation officials also urged U.S. citizens to caution others against sharing sensitive information with individuals met online or over the phone.
On Monday, Patel added in a statement that scammers are "banking on the fact that you'll feel too embarrassed to come forward and report the crime to the FBI."
