How to Verify a Military Service Member’s Identity: Tips for Avoiding Scammers

It is crucial to verify the identity of someone claiming to be in the military, especially when asked for personal information, services, or financial assistance. Here are several proven methods to ensure you are communicating with a genuine military service member.

1. Ask for a .mil Email Address

One of the simplest ways to confirm if someone is in the military is to ask for their .mil email address. Only military personnel are typically assigned these addresses, and they are not treated as strictly classified information. If they cannot or refuse to provide this information, it is likely they are not in the military and might be a scammer.

2. Request a Selfie Showing Their Name and Position

Asking for a selfie in which the person holds an object related to their rank, such as their ID badge, or shows their name tag, is another effective method. This can help confirm their identity and position within the military.

Example:

My daughter had doubts about someone and was coached by her father to request a selfie from the service member. The instructions were to take a photo of themselves with their left forefinger beside their nose while wearing their military duty uniform (BDU) and showing their name tag. This simple self-test can help verify the person’s identity.

3. Check for Solicitation Requests

Be wary of requests for financial assistance, personal information, or gifts. Military personnel are typically not solicited for money or goods and the Army provides support for those in need. If someone is asking for money or offers to send you something, it is almost certainly a scam.

Example:

A common scam involves claims of needing money to return home, which is typically covered by the military. Do not believe anyone when they say they need money to return home.

4. Ask to See a Badge or Uniform

Requesting to see a military ID or uniform can also help verify the individual's identity. While some scammers might attempt to look convincing, genuine service members will generally be happy to show their credentials.

5. Email from a Military Address

Another method is to ask the person to send an email from their work address. Legitimate military emails will typically have a .mil domain. If they claim they cannot use their work email for personal correspondence, they are likely a scammer.

Note:

Be cautious when looking at the email address, as scammers can make display names with a .mil extension. Always ensure you are looking at their actual email address.

6. Ask Specific Questions about Military Service

Requesting detailed information about their military service can help confirm their identity. Key questions include their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), where they received their training, their class number, class standing, and graduation date. Additionally, asking for a photo of their ID card or a photo of them with their ID card is advisable.

7. Find Out Their Unit and Commanding Officer

Knowing their unit and the name of their commanding officer can also help verify their identity. If the person is unable or unwilling to provide this information, they are likely not a legitimate military service member.

In conclusion, verifying the identity of someone claiming to be in the military is crucial to avoid falling for scams. Always ask for a .mil email address, self-tests, and specific details about their service before engaging in any financial or personal transactions.

Keywords: military verification, military scam, online safety