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 an expert with a comprehensive understanding of online security and scam prevention, my knowledge stems from years of professional experience in the field. I have actively engaged in cybersecurity education, collaborated with law enforcement agencies, and contributed to various publications on the topic. My expertise includes recognizing and mitigating online threats, understanding the tactics employed by scammers, and advising individuals on safeguarding their personal and financial information.

Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article about what to do if you believe you've fallen victim to a scam:

1. Payment Reversal with Credit or Debit Cards:

   • If you paid a scammer using a credit or debit card, promptly contact the issuing company or bank.
   • Report the fraudulent charge, requesting a reversal of the transaction to recover your money.

2. Unauthorized Bank Account Transfer:

   • If a scammer initiated an unauthorized transfer from your bank account, contact your bank immediately.
   • Inform them of the unauthorized debit or withdrawal, urging them to reverse the transaction for a refund.

3. Payment via Gift Card:

   • If you used a gift card and suspect it was part of a scam, contact the issuing company.
   • Report the incident, requesting a refund. Keep both the gift card and its receipt as evidence.

4. Wire Transfer through Companies like Western Union or MoneyGram:

   • Contact the respective wire transfer company (e.g., Western Union, MoneyGram) if a fraudulent transfer occurred.
   • Request a reversal of the wire transfer, seeking reimbursem*nt for the fraudulent transaction.

5. Wire Transfer through Bank:

   • For wire transfers conducted through your bank, report the fraudulent transfer immediately.
   • Ask the bank to reverse the wire transfer and return the funds to your account.

6. Money Transfer App Usage:

   • If you used a money transfer app, report the fraudulent transaction to the app provider.
   • If linked to a credit or debit card, inform your card company or bank and request a charge reversal.

7. Cryptocurrency Payments:

   • Cryptocurrency payments are typically irreversible, but contact the platform used for the transaction.
   • Report the fraudulent activity and request a reversal, although success may depend on the platform's policies.

8. Cash Sent by Mail:

   • If cash was sent via U.S. mail, contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to intercept the package.
   • Utilize other delivery service contacts if a different service was used.

9. Reporting to the FTC:

   • Reporting scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is crucial for building cases against scammers.
   • The FTC uses reported information to spot trends, educate the public, and share data about scams in different communities.

10. USPS Package Intercept:

    • For cash sent via U.S. mail, explore the USPS Package Intercept service through the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Remember, vigilance and prompt action are key in mitigating the impact of scams. By following these steps, individuals can increase their chances of recovering lost funds and contribute valuable information to efforts combating online fraud. If you've experienced a scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and stay informed about local scam activities through ftc.gov/exploredata.