How to Report Internet Fraud

Internet fraud and computer scams are happening every day. Many people fall prey to computer fraud and Internet scams that cost both citizens and the government millions of dollars each year. You can help by filing complaints when you or someone you know has been victimized or approached with an Internet scam.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Internet connection
• Telephone
• Information for the complaint

1. Gather the information for the complaint. You will need to provide your information like address, phone number and email, as well as information relating to the company or person you are complaining about. It's a good idea to have all of this information in one place before you sit down to make the complaint.

2. Determine the best place to file your complaint. Depending on the nature of the crime and complaint, there might be a special department or organization that you can complain to. Some specialize in spam, while others focus on auction fraud or pyramid schemes.

3. Report to multiple sources. Cover all of your bases by reporting to several organizations (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Educate yourself on Internet scams to avoid being victimized.

Resources

• Where to complain about spam
• Internet crime complaint center
• Information on Internet fraud
• Cybercrime reporting