Trump Administration Enlists Citizens in Anti-Fraud Initiative
The Trump administration has introduced a new approach in its campaign against fraud: engaging attentive citizens.
Recently, Vice President JD Vance urged the public to “take the pledge to protect Americans from fraudsters” and tie their support for political candidates to those candidates’ commitments to combat fraud.
In the Oval Office, President Donald Trump, along with Vance and other members of his so-called “untouchables,” announced the launch of an incentive program as part of this anti-fraud effort.
The new Fraud Whistleblower Incentive Program offers citizen whistleblowers, including journalists, a financial reward ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 for providing information that leads to criminal fraud charges, in addition to a potential 1% commission on any recovered funds.
Trump remarked, “If it’s $10 million, $200 million, $400 million — we’re giving a 1% commission to that person.”
He also mentioned that he would serve as an arbitrator in cases where there might be disagreements about who qualifies for a particular bounty.
The Justice Department highlighted that, unlike most existing government whistleblower programs that reward only after legal matters are settled, this new initiative rewards individuals significantly earlier in the prosecution process.
Whistleblowers are encouraged to report tips related to federal healthcare violations or fraud involving programs managed by federal agencies through america.gov/fraud. The Treasury Department will review these tips and refer them to the appropriate federal office. If the information leads to legal action or the recovery of misappropriated funds, qualified whistleblowers may receive compensation for their contributions.
Trump stated that this program “is going to keep a lot of people honest.”
According to Vance, there’s already a bounty claimant: investigative journalist Nick Shirley.
Trump praised Shirley for his work in exposing fraud, particularly concerning allegations involving the highly publicized Quality Learning Center and other taxpayer-funded, Somali-operated daycare centers in Minnesota.
“Thanks to Nick’s efforts, since I took office, 115 fraudsters in Minnesota have been arrested and charged,” Trump noted.
He also pointed out that Shirley’s success has led California to enact the “Stop Nick Shirley Act,” a move Trump described as a desperate attempt to suppress free speech and hide corruption.
Shirley is reportedly set to receive a $10,000 reward for his contributions.
Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, “The Fraud Whistleblower Incentive Program (WHIP) provides everyone the chance to play a part in solving fraud issues and ensures they are rewarded promptly.” He encouraged Americans to get involved and help bring fraudsters to justice.
Trump affirmed, “From the start of my administration, we’ve launched an unmatched campaign against corruption and fraud, determined not to let our country be looted by thieves, fraudsters, and the scum of society.”
According to the White House, since January 2025, approximately $260.7 billion in fraud has been identified, and the administration’s efforts have led to the prevention of $72 billion in fraudulent activity annually.
