ScamPause

If the Scam Is Happening Right Now

1. Stop all contact immediately. Hang up the phone, close the browser window, or stop responding to messages. You don't owe anyone an explanation, and you won't hurt anyone's feelings by protecting yourself.
2. Do not send money or provide additional information. If you're on a website or have someone on the phone asking for payment details, passwords, or personal information, end it now.
3. If someone has remote access to your computer, disconnect from the internet immediately by unplugging your network cable or turning off Wi-Fi. Then shut down your computer.
4. If you've been asked to go to a store or ATM, don't go. If you're already there, leave without completing the transaction.

If You Already Sent Money

Time matters, but don't panic. Take these steps as quickly as you can:

Gift Cards

Contact the company that issued the gift card immediately (Amazon, Google Play, iTunes, etc.) and report the scam. Provide the card numbers and receipts if you have them. They may be able to freeze unused funds.

Wire Transfer or Money Order

Contact the wire transfer company immediately (Western Union, MoneyGram, Walmart-2-Walmart, etc.) and report the fraud. If the money hasn't been picked up, it may be possible to reverse the transaction.

Bank Transfer, Check, or Debit Card

Contact your bank or credit union immediately. Explain what happened and ask them to stop or reverse the payment if possible. Ask about fraud protection and next steps.

Credit Card

Contact your credit card company immediately to dispute the charge. Credit cards offer strong fraud protections, and you may be able to get your money back.

Cryptocurrency

Contact the cryptocurrency exchange you used to send funds and report the scam. Unfortunately, cryptocurrency transactions are usually irreversible, but reporting it creates a record.

Cash Sent by Mail or Courier

Contact the shipping company and the recipient's local postal inspector if known. Unfortunately, cash is very difficult to recover once sent.

If You Shared Personal Information

Passwords or Login Credentials

Change your passwords immediately for any accounts where you used that password. Use strong, unique passwords for each account. If you shared banking passwords, contact your bank right away.

Social Security Number

Place a fraud alert on your credit reports by contacting one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion). Consider placing a credit freeze to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. Monitor your credit reports closely for the next year.

Bank Account or Credit Card Numbers

Contact your bank or credit card company immediately. They can monitor for fraudulent transactions and may issue new account numbers or cards.

Driver's License or ID Number

Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to report potential identity theft. They can flag your record and provide guidance.

Report the Scam

Reporting helps protect others and creates an official record. Consider reporting to:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): ReportFraud.ftc.gov — This is the primary resource for reporting scams in the United States.
• FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): ic3.gov — For internet-related scams.
• Your local police department — Especially if you've lost a significant amount of money.
• Your state's Attorney General — Many have consumer protection divisions.
• The actual company being impersonated — If scammers claimed to be from Amazon, your bank, the IRS, etc., report it to the real organization.

Protect Yourself Going Forward

• Set up account alerts with your bank to notify you of transactions.
• Review your credit reports regularly at AnnualCreditReport.com.
• Be skeptical of unexpected contact, even if it looks legitimate.
• Never share passwords, PINs, or security codes with anyone.
• Remember that legitimate companies and government agencies will never demand immediate payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.

Take Care of Yourself

Being scammed is stressful and can feel overwhelming. It's normal to feel angry, embarrassed, or anxious. Remember:

• This was not your fault. Scammers are professionals who manipulate emotions and exploit trust.
• You're not alone. Millions of people are targeted every year.
• Taking action now is the right thing to do.

If you're feeling distressed, consider talking to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor.