What to Do If You Think You Were Scammed
Clear steps to take right away if you shared information, sent money, or clicked something suspicious.
Lesson content
If you think you were scammed, try to stay calm. Many people are targeted, and acting quickly can limit the damage. You are not alone, and help is available.
If you sent money — especially by wire transfer, gift card, cryptocurrency, or cash app — contact your bank or the payment company immediately. Explain it was fraud and ask if the transfer can be stopped or reversed. Time matters.
If you shared personal information like your Social Security number, bank account, or passwords, change your passwords right away starting with email and banking. Enable two-factor authentication if you have not already.
Report the scam to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to your local police if money was lost. Reports help authorities track scammers and may help with documentation for your bank.
Tell a trusted family member or caregiver what happened. Scammers often tell victims to stay quiet — breaking that silence gets you support and prevents repeat attacks.
Watch your accounts closely for the next few weeks. Look for unfamiliar charges, new accounts opened in your name, or password reset emails you did not request.
Step-by-step actions
- Stop communicating with the scammer — hang up, block, and do not reply.
- Call your bank or credit card company using the number on your card.
- Change passwords on email, banking, and any affected accounts.
- File a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and note confirmation numbers.
- Contact local police if you lost money and need a report for your bank.
- Place a fraud alert with credit bureaus if identity information was shared.
- Tell a family member or caregiver and keep a written timeline of events.
Related lessons
Keep learning with these related topics.
What Is a Scam?
Learn what a scam is, why scammers target people, and the simple habits that help you stay safe every day.
How to Recognize a Phishing Email
Learn how to spot fake emails that try to steal your passwords, money, or personal information.
How to Create a Strong Password
Simple steps to create passwords that are hard to guess and easy for you to manage safely.