Who to contact if you’ve been scammed
If you’ve lost money or shared sensitive information online, it’s important to act quickly. Follow these steps to protect yourself and help others.
Immediate Action
1 – Call your bank or credit card company if someone scammed money from you.
2 – Change your password if you shared it.
3 – Call someone you trust, such as a family member or a friend.
Report the Scam
Even if you didn’t lose money, reporting the scam helps others avoid the same trap. Here’s where you can report:
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Tracks fraud and shares info with law enforcement.
Website: reportfraud.ftc.gov
Phone: 1-877-382-4357 (Mon–Fri, 9am–8pm ET) - FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
Handles online scams, phishing, and internet fraud.
Website: ic3.gov - USA.gov Scam Assistance
Central source for scams, fraud, and recovery resources.
Website: usa.gov/stop-scams-frauds
Phone: 1-844-USA-GOV1 (1-844-872-4681) - U.S. Department of Justice – Elder Justice Initiative
Supports victims of elder scams and abuse.
Website: justice.gov/elderjustice
Phone: Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311) - Area Agency on Aging
Local help and counseling for seniors.
Website: eldercare.acl.gov
Phone: 1-800-677-1116
Helpful Tip
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, ask a trusted family member or friend to help you make these calls or fill out the online forms.
What Happens Next?
- You may receive an email confirmation from the agency you reported to.
- They may not respond individually, but your report helps track scam patterns.
- Keep copies of everything you submit (screenshots or printouts).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- 🟥 Don’t pay anyone promising to “recover” your lost funds.
- 🟥 Don’t click on suspicious links sent after the incident.
- 🟥 Don’t delay. Quick action is key to limiting damage.
Want to keep this page? You can download a printable version here (PDF).