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The Scam Exposed

Reader Stories, In Their Own Words

These are real stories written and shared by people who were targeted by scams, not our automated alert pages. Read them to learn the tricks scammers use, so you can spot them fast. Have your own story? Tell us what happened and we will write it down with you, or fill in the form yourself.

You're Safe Here. Let's Fix This Now.

If you already sent money or shared information, act fast. Follow these steps in order.

1

Call Your Bank or Card Company Immediately

Use the number on the back of your card, not any number the caller gave you. Ask them to freeze the transaction or account.

2

Call the National Elder Fraud Hotline

Free help, 7 days a week.

Call 1-833-372-8311
3

Report It to the Government

File a free report at the Federal Trade Commission so they can investigate.

Go to reportfraud.ftc.gov