Already Sent Money or Shared Info?
Act fast, and don’t be embarrassed. Scams happen to smart people every day.
- Call your bank or card company now. Use the number on the back of your card or on your statement, not a number from the message. Ask them to stop or reverse the payment and lock your account.
- Change your passwords. Start with email and banking. If you gave someone remote access to your computer, disconnect it from the internet and get trusted help.
- Freeze your credit (free). Contact Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. If you shared your Social Security number, also visit IdentityTheft.gov.
- Gift cards? Call the company that issued the card right away and tell them it was used in a scam. Keep the card and receipt.
- Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov and www.ic3.gov.
- Watch for “recovery” scams. Anyone who promises to get your money back for a fee is likely another scammer.