Think You Have Been Scammed

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You’re not alone — and you can take back control.

Realizing you may have been scammed is overwhelming but take a breath — you’re in the right place.
Many good, smart, caring people fall victim to scams every day. Scammers are trained to trick the brain, gain trust, and create confusion.

What matters now is what you do next.

Below is a step-by-step guide to help you stay safe, protect your information, and begin recovering.

If you suspect someone is scamming you:

• Don’t message them back
• Don’t answer calls
• Don’t send any more money or information
• Block them on all platforms

Scammers rely on pressure and urgency — removing contact cuts off their power.

Change passwords on:

• Email
• Banking apps
• Social media
• Online shopping accounts
• Digital wallets

Use strong, unique passwords and enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) wherever possible.

If you sent money:

• Report the transaction immediately
• Ask if it can be reversed or disputed
• Request a freeze or new card if needed
• Watch for unfamiliar charges over the next few weeks

Banks handle scam cases every day — you’re not bothering them.

Take screenshots or save:

• Messages
• Emails
• Payment receipts
• Profiles / phone numbers
• Dates and times

This helps with reporting and may be needed for investigations.

If you clicked links, downloaded files, or gave access:

• Update your device
• Run antivirus / anti-malware
• Consider resetting compromised apps
• Change passwords again afterward

Tools like Aura, LifeLock, and IdentityForce help detect breaches 

Scammers often target victims again with:

• Fake “refund offers”
• Pretending to be law enforcement
• Claims they can recover your money

If someone promises to “get your money back for a fee,” it’s a scam.

Reporting helps prevent others from being targeted.

You can report scams to:

• FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
• FBI Internet Crime Center (IC3): ic3.gov
• Your bank or credit union
• Local police (especially for large losses)
• Social media platforms 

• Dating or Defrauding
• DHS  
• Fight Cyber Crime