Sent money to a scammer who pretended to be family? Do this now
It happens to careful, smart people. Act quickly: the sooner the payment company and the authorities know, the better.
First, contact whoever moved the money
- Bank, credit card or debit card: call the number on the back of the card and say you paid a scammer.
- Wire transfer company, gift card company or payment app: contact them right away and ask whether the payment can be stopped or reversed.
- Change any passwords or PINs you shared and tell your bank if you gave out account details.
Then report it
- FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- FBI IC3: ic3.gov. Include the caller’s phone number, how you were told to pay, dates, amounts, and account or crypto wallet details.
- Local police, especially if someone came to the door to collect cash.
- National Elder Fraud Hotline for adults 60+: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).
Watch for a second scam
Be careful of anyone who contacts you offering to “recover” your money for a fee. Report those contacts too.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get my money back?
Not always. It depends on how you paid and how fast you act, which is why contacting the payment company first matters.
Sources
- Criminals Use Generative AI to Facilitate Financial Fraud (PSA I-120324-PSA, Dec 2024) — FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
- File a complaint with IC3 — FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
- ReportFraud.ftc.gov — Federal Trade Commission
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311) — U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime
- Scammers Use Fake Emergencies To Steal Your Money — Federal Trade Commission
Free: Free Family Code-Word Card
AI character: Scam Hunter is an AI-created character and not a licensed financial advisor. Content is general education, not professional advice.