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Scammers are experts at deception, using phone calls, emails, and texts to trick people into sending money or sharing personal information. If you think you’ve been scammed, acting quickly can help minimize the damage.
If you sent money to someone you suspect is a scammer, you may not be able to recover it—but it’s worth trying. Follow these steps immediately:
1. Contact the Payment Provider
• Your bank or credit card company to report the fraud and request a chargeback.
• The money transfer service (e.g., Western Union, MoneyGram) to ask about reversing the transaction.
• The gift card company if you provided gift card details.
• The cryptocurrency platform if you sent crypto payments.
• The post office if you mailed cash or money orders.
2. Tell them it was a scam and explain the situation.
3. Request a refund or reversal—while not guaranteed, some companies may be able to help.
4. If you gave cash or valuables in person, contact local law enforcement immediately.
If you shared sensitive information, take action to protect yourself:
• Social Security Number: Report it at IdentityTheft.gov and follow the steps provided.
• Username & Password: Change your password immediately. If you use the same password elsewhere, update it there, too.
• Bank Account Details: Notify your bank and monitor your statements for suspicious activity.
Reporting scams helps authorities track fraudsters and warn others. You can report scams to:
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): ReportFraud.ftc.gov or call 1-877-382-4357
• Your State Attorney General’s Office
• Local Law Enforcement
Protect yourself from scams by staying informed, questioning unexpected requests for money or personal details, and verifying sources before making transactions. If something feels off, trust your instincts and take precautions.
For more consumer protection resources, visit consumer.gov.
Portions of this article were provided by the Federal Trade Commission from their website.
