Introduction

Some deceptive messages ask for more than belief. They ask you to transfer money, reveal information, open a file, or give someone access to an account.
An impersonation scam works by pretending to be a trusted person or organization. The message may copy familiar language, display a recognizable logo, or appear to come from an existing contact.
The central question is whether this particular request comes from the person or organization it claims to represent. A message can look convincing while that identity remains unverified.