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You paid a scammer. Do this now.

Speed matters. Call the company you paid through first.

5 min read

It happens to careful, smart people every day. Acting quickly gives you the best chance of stopping the payment or getting some money back. Don't let embarrassment slow you down.

In the first hour

  1. Contact the company you paid through: your bank or card (for cards, wires and transfers), the payment app, the gift card company or the crypto exchange
  2. Ask them to stop or reverse the payment
  3. If you gave a password or code, change it and turn on two-step login
  4. If you gave your Social Security number, go to IdentityTheft.gov

Next

  • Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and internet crimes at IC3.gov
  • Write down everything: dates, amounts, names, numbers, screenshots
  • Expect "recovery" scammers: anyone who offers to get your money back for a fee is likely another scam

General educational information, not legal advice. Dime Wisdom isn't paid by any bank, security company or government agency.