Realizing you’ve been scammed is just about guaranteed to derail your thinking at a moment when you need to act quickly and take important steps. Scammers rely on that hesitation. The most effective response is to take a deep breath, get organized, and remind yourself that you can get through this. This guide was written to simplify the process of knowing what to do after being scammed. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from a trusted friend or family member who can work through these steps with you.
1. Stop communication and gather the essentials
Once you know it’s a scam, end all contact. Don’t reply, don’t negotiate, and don’t attempt to recover the money through the scammer.
Take a moment to gather whatever you have: screenshots, emails, transaction confirmations, names, phone numbers, and any links involved. Many people find it useful to write down a brief timeline—just the basics of when it started, what was said, and what you sent. It doesn’t need to be perfect; it just needs to be accurate.
2. Contact your bank or payment service
Your next move is to notify any financial institution or payment service you used. Different payment methods come with different options, so explain the situation clearly and ask what can still be reversed.
Credit and debit cards often allow disputes. Bank transfers may be reversible if reported quickly. Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App have more limited options, but reporting unauthorized activity right away is essential. Wire transfers should be reported immediately. Crypto exchanges may accept a report on the wallet involved, even if the funds can’t be recovered. If you paid with gift cards, the issuer may be able to freeze any remaining balance.
The faster you report the issue, the more options you keep open.
3. Secure your accounts and devices
If the scam involved clicking a link, downloading a file, or giving someone access to your device, take a few minutes to tighten your digital security.
Start with your email account. Update the password, turn on two-factor authentication, and make sure only your devices are logged in. Then do the same for your financial accounts. If you installed any remote-access tool at the scammer’s request, remove it and run a malware or antivirus scan. These steps help ensure the scam doesn’t expand beyond the initial incident.
4. Report the scam
Reporting creates a record and helps agencies identify broader scam activity. It also provides documentation that may support your dispute with a bank or payment service.
Most scams can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If your Social Security number or sensitive personal information was shared, IdentityTheft.gov provides specific guidance. Report the scam to the platform where it occurred and to your local police department if money was stolen. Save confirmation numbers for your records.
5. Protect your personal information
If the scammer gained access to personal information, take steps to reduce the risk of identity misuse.
A fraud alert with any of the major credit bureaus is a simple first step (you don’t need to set fraud alerts with all of them). A credit freeze offers stronger protection by blocking new accounts from being opened in your name. Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements in the weeks ahead, and review your credit reports for anything unfamiliar.
Additional steps may be needed if government IDs or tax-related information were exposed.
6. Follow the investigation
Banks and payment providers each have their own review process. These investigations can take time, and it’s common not to hear anything until a decision is made. Keep your documentation organized, answer any follow-up questions as you receive them, and continue monitoring your accounts. The investigation can take time, which can of course feel difficult to wait on.
7. Be alert for secondary scams
After a scam, it’s not unusual to be contacted again—sometimes by the same scammers under a different name. They may claim they can recover your money or say they’re working with law enforcement.
Treat unexpected offers of help with caution. Legitimate agencies do not charge fees to recover money, and they do not contact people through text messages or social media for this purpose. Requests for additional personal information are another warning sign.
8. Strengthen your online and financial habits
A few adjustments can reduce your risk moving forward. Verify identities through a trusted phone number or website. Slow down when a message or caller uses urgency or pressure. Avoid irreversible payment methods when you’re not certain about the recipient. Keep your devices, browsers, and security software updated.
These simple habits make you a more difficult target.
Moving forward after a scam
If you’ve made it this far, you’ve already taken an important step: you aren’t ignoring what happened. Being scammed is upsetting and disorienting, but it doesn’t define you and it doesn’t have to happen again.
Use the actions in this guide to protect your money, your credit, and your identity as much as possible. Then, focus on building safer online and everyday habits so you can spot red flags earlier next time.
When you’re ready, learn more about how scams work by exploring our guides to [Common Scams] and [Emerging Scams]. The more familiar you are with how scammers operate, the harder it is for them to target you—or the people you care about—again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my money back after a scam?
It depends on the payment method and how quickly you act. Credit and debit cards often allow disputes. Bank transfers, Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App have more limited options, but reporting the transaction immediately is essential. Crypto and gift card payments are rarely reversible, though exchanges and issuers may still take a report.
Should I call the police?
Yes, especially if money was stolen. A police report creates documentation that banks or insurance companies may request. Local police may not be able to recover funds, but the report is still useful for establishing a record of the incident.
What should I do if the scammer has my personal information?
If you shared details like a Social Security number, date of birth, or driver’s license information, place a fraud alert and consider a credit freeze. Monitor your financial accounts and credit reports for any unusual activity.
Will the scammer contact me again?
It’s possible. Scammers sometimes return later pretending to be investigators or recovery agents. Treat unexpected contact with caution, especially if it involves fees or requests for more information.
Do I need to change my passwords?
Yes. Start with your email account, then update passwords for any accounts involved in the scam. Turn on two-factor authentication and run a malware scan if you clicked a link or downloaded something.
How long does it take for banks to review fraud claims?
Timelines vary. Most banks start reviewing right away, but decisions can take days or weeks. Continue monitoring your accounts and respond promptly if the bank asks for additional information.
Should I report the scam to the FTC?
Yes. ReportFraud.ftc.gov is the primary place to report scams in the United States. These reports help track scam activity and provide documentation you may find useful later.
What if the scam happened on a social media platform?
Report the account, post, or message directly to the platform. Social media companies rely on user reports to locate and remove fraudulent profiles.
What if I’m unsure whether something was actually a scam?
If you’re unsure, stop communication and don’t send any additional money or information. Review the situation with someone you trust, or contact your bank for guidance. Scams often become clearer once you step back from the pressure.