Preserve evidence and report through official channels

How To Report a Scam

Reporting a scam can help authorities connect complaints and identify patterns. Use official reporting sites directly and keep the records that show how the scam happened.

Check a suspicious link or message Scam guides

Before you file a report

Write down the timeline while it is still fresh: when contact started, what the scammer claimed, and when payments or account changes occurred.

Save the scammer's phone numbers, email addresses, social-media names, websites, wallet addresses, bank details, payment receipts, and transaction IDs.

Keep copies of messages and screenshots. Do not rely only on a chat account that the scammer can delete or block.

If money was sent, contact the financial institution or payment provider first so they can consider immediate fraud controls.

File through official government websites rather than sponsored search results or links sent by strangers.

Watch for fake recovery and fake-authority contacts

The FBI warns that scammers impersonate the IC3 and other authorities and may offer to recover funds. IC3 does not charge people to recover money.

If someone claiming to be law enforcement asks you to pay by gift card, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, prepaid card, or courier, verify the agency independently before taking any action.

Official resources

Frequently asked questions

Should I report a scam if I did not lose money?

Yes. Reports about attempted fraud can still help agencies understand scam patterns.

Will IC3 contact me after I file?

IC3 explains that complaints are reviewed and may be referred to appropriate agencies; filing a complaint does not guarantee direct follow-up or investigation.

Can someone charge me to file a government scam report?

Official FTC and IC3 reporting does not require paying a private recovery service. Be cautious of anyone demanding payment to file or recover funds.

Related guides

This page provides general fraud-response information, not legal or financial advice. Contact your financial institution and appropriate authorities promptly when money or sensitive information may be at risk.