Is impersonating a military officer a crime?

If you are convicted of impersonating an officer, you could be facing a court-martial, a dishonorable discharge, fines and even prison time. Even if the impersonation was meant as a prank, you may still be found guilty of this crime under the UCMJ.

Can you get in trouble for impersonating a soldier?

Falsely claiming to be a member of the military is not illegal, but under the Stolen Valor Act of 2013, it’s against federal law for an individual to fraudulently portray him or herself as a recipient of any of several specified military decorations or medals with the intent to obtain money, property or other “tangible …

How do I report a fake military person?

If you feel you have been scammed by a person claiming to be a U.S. Soldier, contact the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center and the Federal Trade Commission.

What is it called when someone impersonates a soldier?

A military impostor is a person who makes false claims about their military service in civilian life. Other terms include “fake warriors”, “military phonies”, “medal cheats”, and “military posers”.

How do I report a posing veteran?

A party can report someone posing as a military officer by contacting a local law enforcement agency such as a police department or sheriff’s office. The party can also visit the website for the criminal investigation division of the particular military branch to learn how to report a crime.

How do you get scammed from the military?

To perpetrate this scam, the scammers take on the online persona of a current or former U.S. Soldier, and then, using photographs of a Soldier from the internet, build a false identity to begin prowling the web for victims. Never send money to someone claiming to be a Soldier!

Is it safe to send money to someone claiming to be a soldier?

Never send money to someone claiming to be a Soldier! The most common scheme involves criminals, often from other countries — most notably from West African countries — pretending to be U.S. Soldiers serving in a combat zone or other overseas location.

Is it safe to date someone who serves in the military?

U.S. military officials have warned those involved in online dating to proceed with caution when corresponding with someone claiming to be a U.S. military member serving in Syria, Afghanistan or elsewhere.

Should I report someone who is impersonating a military officer?

A party may find there is no purpose in reporting someone posing as a military officer if the individual is neither engaged in financial fraud nor in violation of the Stolen Valor Act of 2013. An individual impersonating a military officer may be engaging in fraud of goods or services, including certain protections for loans.