‘Say Hello To Your Agent’: You Can Actually Ask the FBI If They’re Watching You — Here’s Exactly How To Do It

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ever get the feeling the FBI might have a file on you? Whether you’ve been to one too many protests, shared political posts online, or just watched too many spy thrillers, that paranoia might not be totally misplaced — and yes, you can actually ask the feds directly if they’ve been watching you.

Yes, It’s Legal To Ask the FBI for Your File

Under federal law, U.S. citizens can request their own FBI records through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act (PA). The FBI is legally required to respond, though some details may be withheld for privacy or national security reasons.

According to a viral Facebook Reel by content creator Sidney Raz, the process is surprisingly simple — and only takes a few clicks.

How To Request Your FBI File

The FBI handles file requests through two main pathways:

Option 1: Online (Recommended)

• Visit the FBI’s official website and go to the eFOIPA portal (that’s the electronic Freedom of Information/Privacy Act system).
• Submit your request digitally — no notarization needed.
• You’ll get your response electronically, though turnaround times can vary depending on the FBI’s backlog.

Option 2: Mail-In Request

• Write to the FBI Record/Information Dissemination Section in Winchester, Virginia.
• Include your full name, aliases, date of birth, former addresses, and any identifying details.
• The request must be notarized or include a sworn statement under penalty of perjury.
• Expect a longer wait than online requests.

The FBI doesn’t charge for basic searches but may bill you for copying or file reproduction costs if your records are extensive.

Why People Do It

The idea of checking your FBI file isn’t just about curiosity — it’s rooted in decades of government surveillance history.

According to the ACLU of Oregon, the FBI has tracked activists, civil rights leaders, and celebrities, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., John Lennon, and Cesar Chavez, often targeting those who merely “had the courage to speak out against government policies.”

Today, activists, journalists, and even regular citizens use FOIA and Privacy Act requests to learn if their communications or activities have ever been swept into federal monitoring databases.

What the Internet Thinks

Commenters online were quick to react to Raz’s viral post, with responses ranging from curiosity to pure chaos:

• “If they didn’t have one, they sure do now!”
• “Sounds like a fast way for the FBI to start a file on you.”
• “Ask again in two years — because they’ll definitely start one after you do.”
• “I’ve named my FBI guy Frank, and I tell him through my webcam when I’m joking.”

It seems most users are equally amused — and mildly paranoid — by the idea that simply requesting your file could get you your very own “agent.”

Would you ever dare to ask the FBI for your personal file, or would you rather not find out what’s in there? Join the conversation now on FatCityFeed.com.