Lost money to a scam › Zelle or bank transfer
Sent Money Through Zelle or a Bank Transfer to a Scammer? What to Do
Zelle and bank transfers move money in minutes, so the first call to your bank is the most important step. Banks can sometimes stop or recover a payment if they act before the money is moved on.
What to do now
- Call your bank or credit union nowSay a scammer tricked you into sending money and ask them to stop or reverse the payment and refund you.
- Open a fraud claimAsk for a claim number and what happens next. Write down the name of the person you spoke to.
- Secure your accountIf you shared login details or a code, change your online banking password from a trusted device and ask the bank to check for new payees.
- Report the scamFile a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and at ic3.gov if it started online.
What to say when you call
"A scammer tricked me into sending [amount] by [Zelle or bank transfer] on [date] to [name or phone number]. I want to stop or reverse this payment and open a fraud claim."
Your rights
- Payments you sent yourself are often treated as authorized, which gives you fewer legal protections than a card.
- Your bank decides each case. Reporting fast, with clear evidence that it was a scam, gives you the best chance.
If they say no
If your bank refuses and you believe it is wrong, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Paid another way too?
- Credit card
- Debit card or bank account
- Venmo, Cash App or PayPal
- Wire transfer
- Gift cards
- Cryptocurrency
- Cash by mail or courier
- All steps
This page is general information, not legal or financial advice, and following it does not guarantee you will get your money back.