An advisory issued by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation on 4 November 2025 warned that criminals are increasingly posing as Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. The agency said these impersonators have carried out violent robberies, kidnappings, and sexual assault incidents that created significant risks for vulnerable communities.
Investigators highlighted 5 cases in 2025 that demonstrated how easily offenders exploited public uncertainty about immigration operations. An incident on August 7 in New York involved three men wearing black vests who restrained a restaurant worker, placed a bag over the head of another person, and stole money from an automated teller machine.
Moreover, in Bay County in Florida, investigators received and reviewed a report describing a woman who unzipped a jacket and revealed a shirt bearing the official logo of ICE. This woman claimed she needed to pick up a person before transporting the individual to an apartment complex. Note that the individual later escaped after sensing danger.
Another incident occurred in Brooklyn, New York. A man specifically posed as an immigration officer and directed a woman into a stairwell. He then assaulted her. The incident included an attempt to rape and steal the phone of the victim. Authorities also documented a case in Raleigh, North Carolina, in which a man used threats to coerce people.
The FBI said the aforesaid incidents reveal how impersonators exploit the visibility of immigration operations to target people who fear detention. The advisory further urged agencies to ensure real officers identify themselves clearly and cooperate if civilians request verification through local police or other official channels during field encounters.
Investigators warned that forged credentials, outdated equipment, and vehicles with cloned federal markings are common indicators of fraudulent activity. They encouraged community outreach that teaches residents how to verify the identity of officers and contact nearby authorities whenever they feel uncertain about the legitimacy of an enforcement action.
Note that the Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security have allowed their agents to use masks or unmarked vehicles for safety. Critics have argued that this reduces transparency and increases fear. They further contended that this practice makes it harder for the public to distinguish real officers from criminals.
Several jurisdictions responded with policy changes. California passed SB 627 in September 2025 to limit extreme masking by state and local officers except in high-risk enforcement operations. Local government officials in Seattle are considering an ordinance that would require clear agency emblems and impose civil penalties of up to 5000 U.S. dollars.
The FBI bulletin prepared by the Office of Partner Engagement and the New York Field Office has specifically framed these incidents as a national concern linked to increasing immigration enforcement actions. Officials said sustained community trust is essential so the public can distinguish legitimate activity from threats by impersonators.