🛡️ Report & Recover

              What to do after a scam

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You’re Not Alone

Falling for a scam can happen to anyone — even the smartest and most cautious people.  What matters most is what you do next.

This page will guide you through reporting the scam, protecting your information, and starting recovery.

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Step-by-Step Guide

 

Step 1: Stop and Stay Calm

 

• Cut off all contact with the scammer.

• Do not send more money or share more details.

• Take a moment to breathe — you are not alone.

 

Step 2: Gather Your Evidence

 

• Save emails, text messages, call logs.

• Keep screenshots of suspicious websites or profiles.

• Write down important details (dates, names, amounts).

 

Step 3: Report the Scam

 

Reporting helps protect you and others. Choose your country’s official reporting system:

 

• USA: ReportFraud.ftc.gov

• FBI Internet Crime Center (IC3): ic3.gov

• UK: Action Fraud

• Canada: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

• Australia: Scamwatch.gov.au

 

👉 Also contact your local police for additional reporting.

 

Step 4: Protect Your Accounts

 

• Call your bank or credit card company immediately to stop or reverse transactions.

• Change passwords for your email, banking, and social media.

• If your identity was stolen, place a credit freeze or fraud alert with major credit bureaus.

• In the U.S., visit IdentityTheft.gov for recovery plans.

 

Step 5: Get Support

 

It’s normal to feel embarrassed, angry, or upset.

 

• Talk to family or a trusted friend.

• Contact the AARP Fraud Watch Helpline if you’re a senior in the U.S.

• Remember: asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.