How to Safeguard Against Military Scammers: Verifying a Person’s True Status in the United States Army

There are instances where individuals may doubt a person’s claim to be in the United States Army. Such suspicions may arise from their unusual requests, suspicious behavior, or a lack of concrete details about their military service. Here are some steps and signs that can help you identify whether someone might be a scammer and safeguard yourself from potential financial and emotional harm.

Common Signs of a Military Scammer

Scammers often exploit the goodwill and affection that people attribute to those who serve in the military. Beware if you encounter someone claiming to be in the US Army and:

Requests money or asks you to purchase gifts. Asks you to help with personal or financial situations, such as managing packages or handling funds. Uses vague or exaggerated details about their job or military unit. Increases intimacy or affection too quickly, seemingly desperate for a relationship.

The Non-Verifiable Nature of Online Claims

It is important to understand that there is no reliable method to verify someone's status in the military on the open internet. Privacy laws, operational security (opsec), and the ever-changing nature of military data all contribute to the difficulty in verifying claims online:

Privacy laws in the United States protect the personal information of service members, making it illegal and potentially punishable to request or share such information. The Department of Defense (DoD) networks are closed systems, meaning they are not accessible to the public or even to those who do not have the appropriate clearance level. Requests for information or data from anyone with access to such networks could be illegal under the law.

Common Questions and Tips for Verification

Many people question how to verify if a person claiming military service is truthful. Here are some general tips and common questions:

DoD Verification Services

One suggestion is to look into DoD verification services, which may be able to provide information about service members. However, it is important to note that:

These services often require the real service member or their consent. They may not be able to access all the necessary information for free. They are not foolproof, as scammers may have obtained false documents or personal information.

Personal Confirmation

A more reliable method is to seek personal confirmation:

Contact the service member's actual family or friends. Call the military base or unit directly, using a number you find independently. Utilize social media channels to look for mutual friends or military groups.

Preventative Measures

Preventing falling victim to military scammers involves being vigilant and cautious:

Never share personal, financial, or sensitive information with someone claiming to be in the military. Set boundaries and personal limits when seeking connections or relationships online. Maintain a healthy level of skepticism, especially regarding requests for financial support.

Conclusion

Remember, it is not safe to assume that someone claiming to be in the US Army is genuine, especially if they begin to make unusual requests or seem desperate for a personal connection. By staying informed and being cautious, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the deceitful actions of military scammers.