Emergency Help
I Sent Money or Gave Card Details to a Scammer
Speed matters, and your options depend on how you paid. Find yours below.
First: being scammed can happen to anyone, and acting quickly gives you the best shot at getting money back or limiting the damage. How you paid decides your next move.
What to do after being scammed out of money
Act fast and match your response to how you paid.
- Contact your bank, card issuer, or the payment app immediately to freeze or dispute the payment.
- Ask specifically about chargebacks or scam-reimbursement — card and some transfers can be reversed if you're quick.
- Change the password on the account you paid from and turn on two-factor authentication.
- Save all evidence: amounts, dates, screenshots, and the scammer's messages.
- Report the scam to the relevant authorities, and ignore anyone offering paid "recovery".
Frequently asked questions
Can I get my money back after a scam?
It depends how you paid. Card payments and some bank transfers can often be disputed or recalled if you act fast. Gift cards and cryptocurrency are usually not recoverable, so speed and payment type are everything.
Someone offered to help me recover my scammed money for a fee. Is that legit?
Almost never. "Recovery" services that ask for an upfront fee are a common follow-up scam targeting people who've already lost money. Work only through your bank and official authorities.
How fast do I need to act?
As fast as possible. Some transfers can be stopped or recalled only before they settle, which can be a matter of minutes to hours. Call your bank the moment you realise, even outside business hours.
This is general guidance for common situations, not legal or financial advice. When large sums or physical safety are involved, contact your bank and local authorities directly.