Our Investigative Mission
The U.S. Secret Service has a long and storied history of safeguarding America’s financial and payment systems from criminal exploitation. The agency was created in 1865 to combat the rise of counterfeit currency following the Civil War. As the U.S. financial system has evolved - from paper currency to plastic credit cards to, now, digital information - so too have our investigative responsibilities.
Today, Secret Service agents, professionals, and specialists work in field offices around the world to fight the 21st century’s financial crimes, which are increasingly conducted through cyberspace. These investigations continue to address counterfeit, which still undermines confidence in the U.S. dollar, but it is credit card fraud, wire and bank fraud, computer network breaches, ransomware, and other cyber-enabled financial crimes, that have become the focus of much of the Secret Service investigative work.
Types of Crimes We Investigate
Counterfeit Investigations
The Secret Service was formed in 1865 to investigate counterfeit currency during the civil war, as it presented a national security issue. Over time, the Secret Service investigative mission expanded.
Financial Investigations
As the original guardian of the nation’s financial payment systems, the Secret Service has a long history of protecting American consumers and industries from financial fraud and payment scams.
Cyber Investigations
The Secret Service is world-renowned for performing some of the most complex, technical investigations into financially-motivated cybercrime organizations threatening the global financial infrastructure.
Internet Crimes Against Children
The Secret Service is dedicated to combatting online child sex abuse and was the first federal agency to partner with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in 1997.
Forensic Expertise
We have a cadre of experts in various forensic areas applicable to our integrated investigative and protective missions, ranging from forensic chemists to network intrusion specialists.
Most Wanted Fugitives
View of a list of the Secret Service’s Most Wanted Fugitives. Submit tips if you think you can assist with apprehension.
Seeking Information
The Secret Service is actively soliciting information from the public concerning various criminal organizations and identifiers currently the subject of investigation.
Avoid Scams
Learn how to protect yourself from various types of scams and fraudulent schemes.
Resources
Office of Investigations Strategy FY2021-2027
Annual Report FY2023
Latest Press Releases