You Think You've Been Scammed. Now What? (2024)

FAQs

You Think You've Been Scammed. Now What? ›

Consider filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. If you've been a victim of fraud, identity theft, or deceptive business practices, you can report them to the Federal Trade Commission.

There is no such thing as getting a refund from a scam. If you were able to do this then scammer wouldn't be scamming people. If you used your credit or debit card to make an online purchase through a secure checkout and you didn't receive the item then you can file a chargeback with your bank.

If you spot a scam or have been scammed, report it and get help. Don't be embarrassed about reporting a scam. Because the scammers are cunning and clever there's no shame in being deceived. By reporting it, you'll make it more difficult for them to deceive others.

If you've transferred money to someone because of a scam

This type of scam is known as an 'authorised push payment'. Your bank or building society should reimburse you if it's registered with the Lending Standards Board under their Contingent Reimbursem*nt Model Code (CRM Code).

Here are some tips for forgiving yourself after being scammed: Accept your emotions and begin the healing process. Reach out for support from friends and family. Take care of yourself by eating right, getting enough sleep, and exercising. Monitor and change your thinking.

“Letting your family, friends and colleagues know you've experienced a scam should be the first step in coping with the event,” Campbell says. “They're likely not going to judge you because once they hear your story, chances are they'll be focused on your wellbeing and how to support you moving forward.”

The easiest way to become a victim of a bank scam is to share your banking info — e.g., account numbers, PIN codes, social security number — with someone you don't know well and trust. If someone asks for sensitive banking details, proceed with caution.

You can dispute credit card charges with your issuer for three reasons under the Fair Credit Billing Act: Someone else used your card without permission. Say a fraudster charged a big-screen TV to your card. You could dispute that payment as an unauthorized purchase.

Who should I contact if I have been scammed? ›

If you suspect a scam, there are a few important steps you should take right away. Contact your local police or sheriff's office to report the scam. Contact your state attorney general.

You think a scammer has stolen your personal information

Complete a report through ReportCyber. Make yourself a harder target: Secure your social media and other personal accounts, such as your email. Change the passwords to any other accounts you think the scammer may have accessed, or to which they now have access.

Scammers can steal your identity by obtaining your personal financial information online, at the door or over the phone. What they want are account numbers, passwords, Social Security numbers, and other confidential information that they can use to loot your checking account or run up bills on your credit cards.

Recovering money sent to a scammer can be challenging, but here are some steps you can take: Contact your bank or payment provider:Report the scam to your bank or payment provider as soon as possible. Provide them with details of the transaction, including the date, amount, and the recipient's information.

Contact the company or bank that issued the credit card or debit card. Tell them it was a fraudulent charge. Ask them to reverse the transaction and give you your money back.

Explore Online Footprints: The digital age leaves traces, and the scammer's online activity can be a valuable source of leads. Utilize social media platforms to search for the scammer's name or usernames. Look for any profiles or accounts that match details they provided you with.