What To Do If You Think You Are Being Scammed
Learn the five steps to take when you suspect a scam — stop communicating, do not send money, verify, talk to someone you trust, and report it.
Lesson content
Summary
If you think you are being scammed, acting quickly can limit the damage. Follow these five steps.
Step 1: Stop Communicating
Stop talking, texting, or emailing with the person you suspect is a scammer.
Step 2: Do Not Send Money
Do not send money, gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency — even if they pressure you.
Step 3: Contact the Company Using an Official Phone Number
Look up the real phone number yourself. Do not use any number the caller gave you.
Step 4: Talk to a Trusted Family Member or Friend
Scammers often tell you not to tell anyone. Talking to someone you trust breaks their control.
Step 5: Report the Scam
The earlier you respond, the better your chances of limiting damage. Report to appropriate authorities.
Hawaii Resources
- Annual Credit Report: AnnualCreditReport.com or 877-322-8228
- Senior Medicare Patrol (Hawaii): (808) 586-7281 or 1-800-296-9422
- Hawaii SHIP: (808) 586-7299
- National Do Not Call Registry: 1-888-382-1222
The Three Golden Rules
- Pause before acting.
- Verify using official contact information.
- Ask for help if something feels wrong.
Step-by-step actions
- Stop all communication with the suspected scammer immediately.
- Do not send any more money or share additional information.
- Contact the real company using an official phone number.
- Talk to a trusted family member, friend, or caregiver.
- Report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and to local authorities if appropriate.
- Call Hawaii Senior Medicare Patrol at (808) 586-7281 for Medicare-related scams.
Hawaii Scam Resources
- Senior Medicare Patrol (Hawaii): (808) 586-7281
- Hawaii SHIP: (808) 586-7299
- Annual Credit Report: 877-322-8228
- National Do Not Call Registry: 1-888-382-1222
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