📝 How to Report a Scam
Reporting protects you and helps stop scammers from targeting others. Follow these steps.
❓ Why report? Even if you didn't lose money, your report helps investigators track patterns and shut down scam operations. Every report matters.
- 1
Write down what happened
Before you report, jot down the key details while they're fresh:
- ✓ Date and time of the contact
- ✓ Phone number, email address, or website they used
- ✓ What they said or asked for
- ✓ How they wanted you to pay (gift cards, wire, crypto)
- ✓ Any names, badge numbers, or organization names they gave
- ✓ How much money was involved (if any)
- 2
File a report with the FTC
The Federal Trade Commission is the primary agency for consumer fraud reports.
🌐 Report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov 📞 Or call: 1-877-382-4357 - 3
Report to the FBI (if you lost money)
The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center tracks fraud nationwide.
🌐 Report at IC3.gov - 4
Call the Elder Fraud Hotline
Staffed by case managers who can help you through the process and connect you with local resources.
📞 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311) - 5
Report to your state Attorney General
Your state AG handles local fraud complaints and may be pursuing the same scam.
🌐 Find your state AG
🚫 Watch Out for "Recovery Scams"
After being scammed, some people are targeted again by criminals who claim they can "recover your money" for a fee. This is a second scam.
- 🚩 No legitimate agency charges upfront fees to recover stolen funds.
- 🚩 The FTC, FBI, and local police never ask for payment to help you.
- 🚩 If someone contacts you claiming they can get your money back -- it's another scam.
Already Been Scammed?
You are not alone, and it is not your fault. Our Victim Support guide walks you through immediate recovery steps, free confidential helplines, and how to cope with the emotional impact.
🫂 Get Victim Support →