How to Report Web Fraud Scams

Keep the Internet safe by reporting e-scams.

A web fraud scam, also known as an e-scam, occurs when a person or group of persons attempts to misrepresent themselves toward others using the Internet in an attempt to obtain money or something of value. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), some of the new e-scams include, but are not limited to, work-from-home scams, mystery/secret shopper schemes, rental and real estate scams, and claims-of-being-stranded schemes. The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) receives and investigates various e-scams.

Instructions

1. Go to the Internet Crime Complaint Center website (see Resources) and click the "File a Complaint" link at the bottom of the page.

2. Read the overview information and then select the "I Accept" button at the bottom of the page if you agree to IC3's terms and conditions.

3. Complete the "Incident Characteristics" questionnaire and choose "Next." Enter your personal information as well as details about the suspected e-scam in the fields provided, and then follow the prompts. You have successfully reported the web fraud scam.

Tips & Warnings

• Since IC3 is primarily a referral system for various law enforcement agencies, you may not hear directly from them. However, your case may be forwarded to any law enforcement agency that may have jurisdiction over the issue.

References

• Internet Crime Complaint Center: About Us
• Federal Bureau of Investigation: New E-Scams and Warnings

Resources

• Internet Crime Complaint Center: Welcome to IC3
• U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission: Internet Fraud: How to Avoid Internet Investment Scams