Recognizing Fakes: How to Spot a False US Army Member

Identifying someone who falsely claims to be a member of the U.S. Army can be challenging, but there are several indicators and steps you can take to assess their authenticity.

The Red Flag: Asking for Money

The best indicator is when they ask for money or ask you to pay any type of fees. Actual soldiers don't need your money, gift cards, or crypto. It's against military law for them to ask civilians for money. No real soldier will ask you to send money or pay fees for any reason.

Scammers, on the other hand, make up fake characters and only contact you to trick you into sending them money. At the instant your money is mentioned, even if it's not the person initially contacting you (who might be referred to as a 'commander', 'general', or 'shipping agent'), you should be wary. If money is involved, it's a scam.

Official Verification Methods

Here are several methods to identify a genuine US Army member:

1. Look for Official Identification

Military ID: Genuine service members carry a Common Access Card (CAC) or military ID that includes their name, photo, and service details. DD Form 214: This form is issued upon retirement or separation from the military and provides proof of service.

2. Check Uniform and Insignia

Proper Uniform: Authentic Army uniforms should conform to the Army Regulation AR 670-1. Check for correct insignia patches and badges. Rank and Insignia: Verify that the rank insignia is appropriate for their claimed service period and job role.

3. Ask Specific Questions

Service History: Inquire about their military background including their unit deployment history and military occupational specialty (MOS). Genuine members will usually have detailed knowledge. Common Knowledge: Ask about basic military protocols, terms, or experiences that a real service member should know.

4. Social Media and Online Presence

Profiles: Check for official military-related social media profiles. Many service members share their experiences online. Photos: Look for inconsistencies in photos such as incorrect uniforms or settings that don't match military environments.

5. Verify with Official Resources

Military Verification: Utilize resources like the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) to verify someone's military status. Veterans Organizations: Organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) or American Legion may help with verification.

6. Watch for Red Flags

Inconsistencies: Be wary of discrepancies in their stories or background. Eagerness to Share: Some imposters may overly boast about their service or use it to gain trust or favors.

7. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off or too good to be true, it's worth investigating further. If you suspect someone is falsely claiming military service, approach the situation with sensitivity. Many veterans and active service members value their service and may have reasons for not discussing it openly. If you feel it is necessary, consider reporting the individual to the appropriate authorities or military organizations.

By taking these steps, you can better protect yourself from internet scams and ensure that you are engaging with real members of the U.S. Army.