Step 1: Try to stop or reverse the payment
- Card: call the number on the back and dispute the charge.
- Bank wire or transfer: call your bank, ask for a wire recall and fraud report.
- Payment app (Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, PayPal): report it in the app and to your bank.
- Gift cards: call the card company immediately with the card numbers and receipt; see the FTC's gift card guide for company contacts.
- Crypto: contact the exchange you used and report the destination wallet.
Gather what you can about them
Private search. They are never notified.
Step 2: Report it
- ReportFraud.ftc.gov: the FTC uses reports to spot patterns and bring cases.
- IC3.gov: the FBI's internet crime center.
- The dating app or social network, so they remove the account.
- Your local police, if you need a report for your bank.
Step 3: Lock down your identity
If you shared your Social Security number, ID photos, bank logins or passwords, go to IdentityTheft.gov for a recovery plan. Change passwords, turn on two-factor authentication, and consider a free credit freeze at all three bureaus.
Step 4: Watch for the second scam
People who lose money are often contacted by "recovery agents", fake lawyers or fake government officials who promise to get the money back for a fee. No legitimate agency charges you to recover stolen money.
Step 5: Be kind to yourself
Romance scams are run by organized groups with scripts and teams. Smart, careful people lose money to them every day. Talk to someone you trust.