How to Report a Scam

Reporting Scams: A Simple Guide

Scams are everywhere online. Seriously, it's crazy how many are out there! From fake emails to phony online stores, bad guys are always trying to trick you. This guide will help you spot and report them. Your safety is important!

What Kind of Scams Are There?

Knowing what to watch out for is half the battle. Here are some common scams:

• Phishing Scams: Think fake emails or texts asking for your password or credit card info. They often pretend to be from real companies. Don't fall for it!
• Fake Online Stores: Amazing deals that are too good to be true? They probably are. These stores often take your money and never send anything.
• Investment Scams: Promises of quick money? Run far away! These scams often disappear with your cash.
• Romance Scams: Someone you met online asking for money? Be careful! They might not be who they seem.
• Tech Support Scams: Someone calling saying your computer has a virus? Unless you called them, it's likely a scam.
• Fake Charities: Be wary of charity requests. Do your research before donating. Sadly, some fake charities are just after your money.

What To Do If You Think You've Been Scammed

If you think you've been scammed, act fast!

1. Don't respond! Don't click links, reply to messages, or give out any information.
2. Gather evidence. Keep emails, texts, screenshots – anything that shows what happened.
3. Report it! We'll show you where to report it below.
4. Change your passwords. Immediately change all your passwords.
5. Watch your accounts. Check your bank and credit card accounts for any weird activity.
6. Tell your bank. Let your bank or credit card company know right away.

Where To Report Scams

Reporting is key! Here are some places to report scams:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC is a great place to start. Report online at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
• Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): The IC3 handles internet-related crimes. You can file a report at www.ic3.gov.
• Your State Attorney General: Your state might have a special office to handle scams.
• Your Bank/Credit Card Company: If money is involved, tell your bank immediately!
• Social Media: Report scams on the social media platform where they happened.
• Online Marketplaces (like eBay or Amazon): Report it to the marketplace if the scam happened there.

How To Avoid Scams

Preventing scams is even better than reporting them! Here's how:

• Be skeptical. Don't trust things that sound too good to be true.
• Check things out. Before giving information, check if the company or person is real.
• Strong passwords! Use strong, unique passwords for everything.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA): It adds an extra layer of security.
• Update your software. Keep your computer and phone software updated.
• Don't click suspicious links. Type the website address in yourself, instead of clicking links in emails.
• Shop safely online. Only shop on trustworthy websites.
• Stay informed. Learn about new scams so you can spot them.

Why Reporting Matters

Reporting scams helps everyone. It lets law enforcement catch the bad guys and stops others from getting scammed. Your report makes a difference!

Conclusion: Stay Safe Online!

Learning about scams is your best defense. By knowing what to look for and where to report, you're taking control of your online safety. Stay safe out there!