What To Do If You're Scammed Online
What To Do If You're Scammed Online
Scammers possess convincing tactics, reaching out through calls, emails, and text messages in an attempt to extract money or sensitive personal information, such as Social Security or account numbers. They excel at their deceptive methods. If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve paid someone you suspect is a scammer or provided them with your personal information or access to your computer or phone, take the following steps. If you’ve made a payment to a scammer, there’s a possibility that your money has already been lost. Regardless of the payment method used, it’s advisable to contact the company through which you made the payment and inquire if there’s any recourse to retrieve the funds.
This article serves solely for informational purposes and is not meant to be construed as legal advice. It is advisable to seek the guidance of a qualified attorney or lawyer for any legal matters you may be facing.
If You Paid A Scammer
Credit Card or Debit Card Payment
If you used a credit card or debit card, reach out to the company or bank that issued the card. Inform them of the fraudulent charge and request a reversal of the transaction to recover your money.
Cash Payment
If you sent cash through the U.S. mail, contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455 and request interception of the package. For other delivery services, get in touch with them promptly to address the situation.
Gift Card Payment
For payments made with a gift card, contact the issuer of the gift card. Inform them that the card was used in a scam and request a refund. Keep both the gift card itself and the receipt.
Wire Transfer Through Companies Like Western Union or MoneyGram
If you sent a wire transfer through companies such as Western Union, MoneyGram, or Ria, contact the respective wire transfer company. Report the fraudulent transfer and request a reversal of the wire transfer to recover your money.
– MoneyGram: 1-800-926-9400
– Western Union: 1-800-448-1492
– Ria (non-Walmart transfers): 1-877-443-1399
– Ria (Walmart2Walmart and Walmart2World transfers): 1-855-355-2144
Money Transfer App Payment
Report the fraudulent transaction to the company behind the money transfer app. Request them to reverse the payment. If the app is linked to a credit card or debit card, report the fraud to your credit card company or bank and ask for a charge reversal.
Wire Transfer Through Your Bank
If you sent a wire transfer through your bank, report the fraudulent transfer to your bank. Ask them to reverse the wire transfer and refund your money.
Unauthorized Bank Account Transfer
In the case of an unauthorized transfer from your bank account, contact your bank immediately. Notify them of the unauthorized debit or withdrawal and ask for a reversal of the transaction to retrieve your funds.
Cryptocurrency Payment
Cryptocurrency payments are typically irreversible. However, contact the company used for the transaction and inform them of the fraudulent nature. Request a reversal if possible.
You Gave A Scammer Personal Information
Scammer Obtained Your Social Security Number
If you provided a scammer with your Social Security number, visit IdentityTheft.gov for guidance on the necessary steps to take, including instructions on how to monitor your credit.
Scammer Obtained Your Username and Password
If a scammer gained access to your username and password, enhance your security by creating a new, robust password. Additionally, if you use the same password elsewhere, ensure to change it across all applicable platforms.
Scammer Has Access To Your Phone or Computer
Scammer Took Control of Your Cell Phone Number and Account
In the event a scammer has seized control of your cell phone number and account, contact your service provider to reclaim control of your number. After regaining control, promptly change your account password. Additionally, scrutinize your credit card, bank, and other financial accounts for any unauthorized charges or modifications. Report such instances to the relevant company or institution. For further guidance, visit IdentityTheft.gov to determine the necessary steps to take.
Scammer Has Remote Access to Your Computer
If a scammer has gained remote access to your computer, enhance your computer’s security by updating its software. Conduct a comprehensive scan and eliminate any identified issues. Subsequently, implement additional measures to safeguard your personal information.
Reporting to the FTC
When you report a scam, the FTC utilizes the information to construct cases against scammers, identify patterns, enlighten the public, and disseminate data regarding occurrences in your community. If you’ve encountered a scam, or even if you’ve observed one, please report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Explore the current situation in your state or metropolitan area by visiting ftc.gov/exploredata.
Report the Listing To Us
If you are ever suspicious of a FilmLocal listing, report it to us immediately. We would much rather you be incorrect than risk people falling to a scam. We will never penalize you for a false flag, we will appreciate you helping keep this community safe!