“I Think I Just Got Scammed. What Do I Do?”

That sinking feeling in your stomach is real, and it happens to smart, careful people every single day. Scammers are professionals. They practice their stories, they rush you, and they pretend to be people you trust. If you were fooled, it is not because you did something foolish. It is because someone worked very hard to fool you.

The good news is that acting quickly can make a real difference. Here is what to do, step by step.

Step 1: Stop all contact

Hang up the phone. Stop replying to the text or email. Do not answer if they call back. Scammers often return with a new story, such as “There’s a problem with your refund,” to get more money. You do not owe them a response.

Step 2: If they are on your computer, disconnect it

If you let someone “fix” your computer or gave them remote access, turn off your Wi-Fi or unplug the internet cable right away. Then shut the computer down. Do not use it for banking until someone you trust has checked it.

Step 3: Call your bank or card company

Use the phone number on the back of your card or on your statement. Do not use a number the scammer gave you. Tell them, “I think I’ve been scammed.” Ask them to stop or reverse any payments, and to watch your account for unusual activity.

If you paid with gift cards: Call the company that issued the card (Apple, Target, Google Play, and so on) right away. Keep the cards and your receipts.

If you sent a wire transfer or used a money app: Call your bank or the app company immediately and ask them to recall or reverse the transfer. Minutes matter here.

Step 4: Change your passwords

If you gave out a password, change it now, starting with your email and bank accounts. If you use that same password anywhere else, change it there too.

Step 5: Protect your identity

If you shared your Social Security number, Medicare number, or bank details:

• Visit IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338 for a personal recovery plan.
• Consider freezing your credit with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. It is free and stops anyone from opening new accounts in your name.
• If you gave out your Medicare number, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

Step 6: Report it

Reporting helps investigators catch scammers and protect others.

• FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center: ic3.gov
• Federal Trade Commission: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
• National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311)
• Your local police department, especially if you lost money

Step 7: Tell someone you trust

This may be the hardest step, and one of the most important. Tell a family member, a friend, or a staff member at your community. Scammers count on embarrassment to keep you quiet. Talking about it helps you get support and helps others avoid the same trap.