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FAQs

Where can I report a scammer in USA? ›

ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Report it. Forward phishing emails to reportphishing@apwg.org (an address used by the Anti-Phishing Working Group, which includes ISPs, security vendors, financial institutions, and law enforcement agencies). Let the company or person that was impersonated know about the phishing scheme.

It is generally best to file a police report on a scammer, reach out to your bank, and file a complaint with the appropriate federal agency as soon as possible after you have been scammed.

The Internet Crime Complaint Center, or IC3, is the Nation's central hub for reporting cyber crime. It is run by the FBI, the lead federal agency for investigating cyber crime. Here on our website, you can take two vital steps to protecting cyberspace and your own online security.

It's probably something in his/her pathological personality. That said, there are ways you can expose a scammer. Post their photos on social media and with every group you can find, report them, find others who may have been scammed.

Criminals who have your email address could potentially use it to impersonate you in an effort to carry out scams or phishing attacks against your friends, family, or coworkers. Especially if the email address they got is your work address.

The easiest way to become a victim of a bank scam is to share your banking info — e.g., account numbers, PIN codes, social security number — with someone you don't know well and trust. If someone asks for sensitive banking details, proceed with caution.

Never give out personal information.

Even telling a scammer where you live or disclosing your email address can help them find other pieces of your identity on social media or from lists on the Dark Web.

Legal Recourse and Justice: The police can initiate investigations that may lead to arrests and legal action against the perpetrators. This not only brings about justice for victims but also serves as a deterrent for would-be scammers.

Can a scammer be traced? ›

With the right approach, determination, and tools, tracing the scammer's digital footprint becomes feasible. Key strategies include: Reporting the scam to authorities for a professional investigation. Utilizing social media and search engines to gather clues.

Report the scam to consumer protection agencies.

For example, in the US, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigates and builds cases against scammers. You may be able to recover some of your money from an FTC lawsuit or settlement. The FTC has a complaint tool on its website that you can use to submit a complaint.

If you've been a victim of fraud, identity theft, or deceptive business practices, you can report them to the Federal Trade Commission. In 2022 alone, the FTC was able to issue more than $392 million in refunds to people who lost money to illegal business practices.

Contact the FBI at (202) 324-3000, or online at www.fbi.gov or tips.fbi.gov. Contact the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-HHS-TIPS, or online at www.oig.hhs.gov . Contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) online at www.ic3.gov.