The risk of becoming a scam victim or falling prey to fraud is more common than you may believe.
The Federal Trade Commission received over2.8 million fraud reportsfrom consumers in 2021.
A simple scam can evolve into full-on identity theft if swift preemptive measures arent taken.
Heres a step-by-step guide for what to do if youve been scammed.
Just look at this long list of scams involving:
No Interest Til Almost 2027?
Balance Transfer = Credit Card Cheat Code
I mean, really.
Is there anything out there thatcantbe turned into a scam?
I guess maybe kite flying or goldfish breeding, but who knows?
Maybe that can also lead to identity theft in the end.
My point is there is no reason to be embarrassed if you get caught up in a scam.
If it makes you feel any better,it even happens to journalists who cover cybersecurityfor a living.
Did you know?
Let them know what happened and theyll walk you through how to secure your account.
Ask to have afraud alertplaced on your account.
To reach the three nationwide credit bureaus, just visit their website or give one of them a call.
This is an excellent way to be alerted of suspicious activity.
Change Your Passwords
If you were scammed online, be sure to change your passwords right away.
it’s crucial that you take action before your information startsappearing on the dark web.
verify the new passwords youcreate are strong and not easily cracked.
Report the Crime
Its important to report the scam to the proper authorities.
Usethis databaseto find the Consumer Protection Office in your state.
The OGGIS also has acomprehensive listof which federal agencies to contact based on the nature of the scam.
The FTC recommends victims of international scams or fraudulent activity that originates outside the U.S. file a complaint witheconsumer.gov.
Just remember to do this all after you have first filed a police report.
Michael Archambault is a senior writer for The Penny Hoarder specializing in technology.
Lisa McGreevy is a former staff writer at The Penny Hoarder.
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