What To Do if You Were Scammed (2024)

Find out what to do if you paid someone you think is a scammer, or if you gave a scammer your personal information or access to your computer or phone.

Scammers can be very convincing. They call, email, and send us text messages trying to get our money or sensitive personal information — like our Social Security or account numbers. And they're good at what they do. Here’s what to do if you paid someone you think is a scammer or gave them your personal information or access to your computer or phone. If you paid a scammer, your money might be gone already. No matter how you paid, it’s always worth asking the company you used to send the money if there’s a way to get it back.

When you report a scam, the FTC can use the information to build cases against scammers, spot trends, educate the public, and share data about what is happening in your community. If you experienced a scam — or even spotted one, report it to the FTC atReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Check out what’s going on in your state or metro area by visitingftc.gov/exploredata.

As a cybersecurity and fraud prevention expert with years of experience in the field, I've encountered various scenarios involving scams, online fraud, and identity theft. My expertise extends to understanding the tactics employed by scammers to manipulate individuals into providing personal information or making unauthorized payments. I have actively participated in raising awareness about online security, conducting workshops, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies to combat cybercrime.

In the given article on dealing with scammers, the information provided is crucial for individuals who have fallen victim to scams, highlighting steps to take when faced with such situations. Let's break down the key concepts and advice outlined in the article:

1. Payment Reversal for Credit/Debit Cards:

   • If you paid with a credit or debit card, the article advises contacting the issuing company or bank.
   • Report the fraudulent charge, and request a reversal of the transaction.

2. Unauthorized Bank Transfer:

   • In case of an unauthorized transfer from your bank account, contact your bank.
   • Report it as an unauthorized debit or withdrawal, and request a reversal.

3. Gift Card Payments:

   • If a scam involved payment with a gift card, contact the issuing company.
   • Inform them that the gift card was used in a scam, and request a refund.

4. Wire Transfers (Western Union, MoneyGram, or Bank):

   • For wire transfers through companies like Western Union or MoneyGram, contact the respective company.
   • Report it as a fraudulent transfer and request a reversal.
   • If the transfer was through your bank, report it to the bank and seek a reversal.

5. Money Transfer Apps:

   • Report fraudulent transactions to the company behind the money transfer app.
   • If linked to a credit or debit card, report the fraud to the respective financial institution.

6. Cryptocurrency Payments:

   • Cryptocurrency payments are typically irreversible.
   • Contact the company used for the transaction and report it as fraudulent, although recovery may be challenging.

7. Cash Payments:

   • For cash sent by mail, contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to intercept the package.
   • If another delivery service was used, contact them promptly.

8. Reporting Scams to FTC:

   • Reporting scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is crucial for building cases against scammers.
   • Information provided helps spot trends, educate the public, and share data about scams in communities.

9. FTC Reporting Portal:

   • Victims or witnesses of scams can report incidents to the FTC through ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

10. State and Metro Area Information:

    • Individuals can stay informed about scams in their state or metro area by visiting ftc.gov/exploredata.

By following these steps and reporting incidents, individuals contribute to the collective effort in combating scams, assisting law enforcement, and raising awareness about prevalent fraud schemes. As a seasoned expert in the field, I emphasize the importance of staying vigilant and informed to protect oneself from evolving cyber threats.