How to Report Fraud & Scam Artists

Unfortunately, the possibility for scams or fraud has grown exponentially with the advent of the Internet. The FBI and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have created special commissions and dedicated certain resources to combat Internet fraud. In addition to the Internet, however, scams and frauds still take place through age-old channels, such as shady business practices or tricky con artists. If you find yourself victimized by a scam or by fraud, a number of resources are available to report the incident. Reporting the crime may help you to recover your losses and ensure proper punishment for the criminal.

Instructions

1. Clarify the type of fraud or scam involved. Fraud or scams come in all shapes and sizes. Scams may involve the Internet, the postal service, financial transactions or shady business practices.

2. Contact the National Fraud Information Center/Internet Fraud Center to report general information you have about fraud or scams. The telephone number is: [phone].

3. Bring Internet fraud and scams to the attention of the FBI and Federal Trade Commission. Go online to the FBI Internet Fraud Complaint Center or the FTC website. You may also contact the nearest FBI office by telephone.

4. Contact state and local agencies to file a complaint. In order to protect yourself and recover your losses, file a complaint with your state's Attorney General office and the local police department. Contact any necessary businesses that may be involved as well, such as your credit card company and your bank.

5. Contact the Better Business Bureau if the scam or fraud involves shady business practices.

6. Report mail fraud and postal scams to the U.S. Postal Service. Call [phone].

References

• Consumer Fraud Reporting: How To Report A Scam