Scams can happen to anyone. When they do, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. But you’re not powerless—and you’re not alone. This guide walks you through what to do right away, how to protect yourself going forward, and where to turn for support.
First Things First: Don’t Panic, But Do Act Fast
The sooner you respond, the better your chances of minimizing the damage or even getting some of your money back. Take a deep breath, then start with these steps.
Cut Off Contact with the Scammer
If you’re still in touch with the scammer, stop all communication right away. Block their phone number, email address, and any other way they might try to reach you—social media, messaging apps, or anything else.
If they reach out again using a different number or account, ignore it. Don’t engage. Just block and move on. And if they ever ask to meet in person, contact local authorities immediately.
Secure Your Accounts
Next, update your passwords—especially for your email, bank accounts, and any apps that store sensitive info. Use unique passwords for each account, with a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
If you think your phone or computer might’ve been compromised, run a security scan using a trusted antivirus tool. It’s a good idea to keep your devices and apps updated with the latest security patches, too.
Report What Happened
Reporting a scam might feel like an extra step when you’re already dealing with a stressful situation—but it matters. Your report could help stop the scammer from targeting someone else. It also creates a paper trail that might help with recovering your money or protecting your identity later.
In the U.S., you can report scams to:
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- Your local police department, especially if the scam involved in-person contact or threats
- Your state attorney general’s office
Try to Recover Lost Funds
If you sent money to a scammer, act quickly. Contact your bank or credit card provider and explain what happened—they might be able to freeze the transaction or reverse the charge.
You can also reach out to organizations like:
- The FTC
- The Department of Justice
- The National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11
- The Identity Theft Resource Center
Even if recovery isn’t guaranteed, these groups can guide you on your next steps and help prevent future losses.
Keep an Eye on Your Credit
Scammers often try to open credit cards or take out loans using stolen info. That’s why it’s smart to check your credit reports regularly. You’re entitled to one free report per year from each of the three major agencies—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—at AnnualCreditReport.com.
If you see anything suspicious, like accounts you didn’t open, flag it right away. You can also place a free fraud alert on your credit report to make it harder for anyone to open new accounts in your name.
Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself
Being scammed can leave you feeling embarrassed, angry, or even ashamed. But you didn’t do anything wrong. Scammers are skilled at what they do, and they target people from all walks of life.
If you’re struggling emotionally, talk to someone you trust—a friend, a family member, or a counselor. You can also find support groups and victim assistance services that understand what you’re going through. Healing takes time, and reaching out for support is a powerful first step.
Moving Forward: How to Protect Yourself From Future Scams
Once you’ve dealt with the immediate situation, it’s time to protect yourself from future risks. Here’s how to stay safe moving forward.
Strengthen Your Digital Hygiene
Keep your devices updated, use strong passwords, and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. Be cautious with links or attachments in emails and messages—even if they look legit.
When entering sensitive information online, make sure the site starts with “https://” and shows a padlock icon. That means your connection is secure.
Turn on Alerts for Your Bank and Credit Accounts
Most banks and credit card companies let you set up transaction alerts by text or email. These notifications can help you spot unauthorized activity quickly, giving you a better chance to take action before it gets worse.
Scammers often use personal info they find on social media—like your birthday, hometown, or even your pet’s name—to guess passwords or answer security questions. Keep your privacy settings tight, and think twice before sharing personal details.
Talk Openly with Friends and Family
The more we talk about scams, the harder it is for scammers to succeed. Share what you’ve learned with the people around you—especially older family members, who may be more vulnerable to certain kinds of fraud.
Remind your loved ones that no legitimate company or government agency will ask for sensitive information by email, text, or over the phone.
Explore Legal and Insurance Options
If you’ve lost a significant amount of money, check with your insurance provider to see if your policy covers fraud-related losses. And if you need legal advice, look for local legal aid groups or lawyers who specialize in consumer protection. They can help you understand your rights and next steps.
FAQs
What should I do right after being scammed?
Stop communicating with the scammer. Secure your accounts and devices. Report the scam to the appropriate authorities. Then take steps to monitor your credit and protect your identity.
How can I report a scam in the U.S.?
Go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov, contact your local police, and reach out to your state’s attorney general. Provide as much detail as possible.
Can I get my money back after being scammed?
It depends on how the money was sent. Contact your bank or credit card provider right away. The faster you act, the better your chances.
How do I protect my identity after a scam?
Request a credit report from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Add a fraud alert to your credit file and watch for any suspicious activity.
Who can I contact for emotional support?
Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor. You can also contact victim support services like the National Elder Fraud Hotline (1-833-FRAUD-11).
How do I spot a scam before it happens?
Watch for red flags: pressure to act quickly, requests for personal info, or anything that sounds too good to be true. Always verify websites and messages before responding.