Key steps now
- Bank first, passwords second, report third.
- Talk to someone you trust today.
Families and seniors
Scams
4 minute read
What to do after
a suspected scam
Quick steps to limit the damage if you shared money or information.
If you think you fell for a scam, act fast and do not feel ashamed. These steps limit the harm.
If you sent money
- Call your bank or card company right away and report fraud.
- Ask them to stop or reverse the payment if they can.
If you shared a password
- Change that password and any account that shares it.
- Turn on two-step verification.
If you shared personal details
- Watch your accounts for strange activity.
- Consider a credit freeze.
Report it
- File a report with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Tell local police for a record.
- Warn your family so the scammer does not reach them next.
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Frequently asked questions
Stop all contact with the scammer, do not send any more money, and write down what happened. Then contact your bank and report it.
Report to your bank or card issuer, local police, and the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. If it involved a specific company, notify them too.
It depends on how you paid and how quickly you act. Contact your bank immediately, because fast reporting improves your chances of recovery.
Change that password and any account that shares it, then turn on two-step verification.