What To Do If You Fell For a Scam

🚨 Immediate Actions

• 01Stop all communication with the suspected scammer
• 02Save all evidence — messages, emails, transaction records, screenshots
• 03Do not send any additional money or information
• 04Block the scammer's contact information

🔐 If You Shared Personal Information

• 01Change passwords on all potentially compromised accounts
• 02Enable two-factor authentication wherever available
• 03Place a fraud alert on your credit report (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)
• 04If you shared your SSN, file a report at IdentityTheft.gov
• 05Monitor your bank and credit accounts for at least 90 days

💸 If You Sent Money

• 01Contact your bank or payment provider immediately to report fraud
• 02Request a chargeback or transaction reversal
• 03File a report with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
• 04Report to the FBI's IC3 at ic3.gov for internet-related fraud
• 05File a report with your local police department

🔍 How This Scam Works

Scams come in many forms — phishing emails, fake texts, fraudulent calls, social media messages, and more. They all share common tactics: creating urgency, impersonating trusted entities, and exploiting emotions to get you to share information or send money.

🛡️ How To Avoid This Scam In The Future

• 01Verify requests for money or information through official channels
• 02Be suspicious of urgent, unexpected messages from unknown senders
• 03Never pay via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency for bills or fees
• 04Use strong, unique passwords and a password manager
• 05Check ScamMessage.com to analyze suspicious messages before responding

Official Reporting Resources

• FTC Report Fraud →
• FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center →
• IdentityTheft.gov →