Recover from a Scam

Immediately cease all interaction with the suspected scammer. Do not respond to further communications.

If you've sent money or provided banking details:

• Credit/Debit Card Transactions: Report the scam to your card issuer to dispute charges and request a new card.
• Wire Transfers: Inform your bank about the scam; they might be able to stop or reverse the transaction if done promptly.
• Bank Account Compromise: Request a freeze on your account to prevent further unauthorized transactions.

If you've given out login information, change passwords for all affected accounts immediately. Use strong, unique passwords for each.

If you've granted remote access or downloaded software from the scammer:

• Disconnect from the Internet: To prevent further access. *
• Run Antivirus Software: Scan your device for malware.
• Consider Professional Help: If uncertain, a professional IT service can check for compromised software or data.

* Note: simply turning your device off is often the first instinct, but depending on the exposure and what access the scammer had, they may have been able to install software that will simply start again when you turn your device back on.

Don't feel like you have to deal with it alone!  In fact, it's much better if you speak to a friend or family member about what happened as soon as possible.  Having another person involved will help catch points of exposure and provide a bit of comfort.

File a report with your local police department, especially if the scam involves significant financial loss or identity theft.

National and Online Reporting:

• In Canada, use the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
• In the US, report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov or via ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
• For UK residents, Action Fraud is the reporting center.

If the scam occurred on a specific platform (like eBay, Kijiji, Craigslist, or a social media site), report it there as well.  If scammers were posing as a specific company (a financial institution, Amazon, Microsoft) the company will most likely have a system for reporting.

Place a fraud alert or credit freeze with major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.

Keep an eye on your bank statements, credit reports, and any online accounts for unusual activity for the foreseeable future.

Be wary of follow-up scams where someone might claim they can help you recover your lost funds for a fee.  Scam organizations communicate and sell data to each other, so if one scammer has your information, they will share it. Genuine recovery services won't ask for money upfront.

Learn about common scam tactics to avoid future incidents. Share your experience (anonymously if preferred) to educate friends and family.

If the scam involves significant financial loss or identity theft, consulting a lawyer might be necessary to explore legal avenues for recovery.

If you've incurred debt or financial strain from the scam, speaking with a financial counselor might help in managing the aftermath.