I’ve Been Scammed, What Now?</a></p>\r\n<p>Next, it is important that you take some time to report the scam not only to give yourself a chance of getting your money back, but also to prevent others from getting scammed in the future. In this article, we have put together a list of authorities dealing with cybercrime in each country. Learn about who you should contact to report a scam and how to make sure you have the best possibility to stop the scammers!</p>\r\n<h2>How to collect evidence of the scam</h2>\r\n<p>The following steps are adapted from Jennifer Mueller’s <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.wikihow.com/Report-Cyber-Crime/">article at wikiHow</a>:</p>\r\n<h3>Step 1: Write down the order of events</h3>\r\n<p>When you’ve been scammed, the process leading up to this point can be weeks or months, involving email communication, payment, delivery etc. It can be helpful to sit down and think through the order of what has led to the scam itself. Below is an example:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Saw an advertisement on Instagram for shoes</li>\r\n<li>Clicked the advertisements and ordered a pair of shoes on the site</li>\r\n<li>Received a tracking email from the company</li>\r\n<li>The delivery date was missed</li>\r\n<li>Emailed the company on <date></li>\r\n<li>Never received a reply</li>\r\n<li>Emailed twice more on <dates></li>\r\n<li>Complained to my bank and the amount was refunded to my account <date></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>It might sound like a simple exercise, but this allows you to collect as much relevant information as possible which may be useful when reporting a scam. It can also help you identify the parties involved with whom you can get in touch for a resolution.</p>\r\n<h3>Step 2: Keep copies of online locations and online files/documents related to the scam</h3>\r\n<p>This is an important step and can include the collection of the following:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Emails</li>\r\n<li>Electronic files</li>\r\n<li>Save relevant webpages (in case the scammer shuts the site down)</li>\r\n<li>Take screenshots of online evidence that is hard to save</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Step 3: Collect non-electronic evidence related to the scam</h3>\r\n<p>If you have purchased a product or service, often there will be evidence such as receipts, bank statements etc. that can be useful. It’s better to be meticulous when collecting this information, as even tiny details can help authorities identify and track down the scammer!</p>\r\n<h2>Where can I report a scammer?</h2>\r\n<p>That might sound simple, but with the global nature of the internet often the victims, criminals and the goods can be in three different locations. However, if you have been threatened by the scammer, our advice would be to contact local law enforcement immediately.</p>\r\n<p>So, we’ve put together a handy guide on law enforcement and government agencies you can contact in order to report an online scam. We’ve ordered it by country/region to help you find the most relevant organizations.</p>"}},{"_template":"Articles\\Text","_identifier":"block-785","data":{"text":"<h3><strong>Step-by-step guides</strong></h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><strong>Australia:</strong> <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"scam-reports/scam-trends/4301/how-to-report-a-scam-to-scamwatch/">How to Report a Scam to ScamWatch</a></li>\r\n<li><strong>UK: </strong><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"scam-reports/scam-trends/4304/how-to-report-a-scam-to-action-fraud-uk/">How to Report a Scam to Action Fraud UK</a></li>\r\n<li><strong>USA: </strong><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"scam-reports/scam-trends/4313/how-to-report-a-scam-to-the-fbi-ic3/">How to Report a Scam to the FBI IC3</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3><strong>International/global organisations</strong></h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.econsumer.gov//">Econsumer.gov allows you to press charges against and help to identify international scam schemes.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://about-fraud.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">About Fraud</a> is a global community for fraud professionals.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.europol.europa.eu/report-a-crime/report-cybercrime-online/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Europol</a> supports EU members in their fight against terrorism, cybercrime and other serious and organised forms of crime.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://merchantriskcouncil.org//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Merchant Risk Council</a> is a network of over 550+ companies focused on fraud prevention, payments optimization and risk management.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Argentina</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.cibercrimen.org.ar//">Argentine Association for the Fight Against Cybercrime (AALCC)</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.mpf.gob.ar/ufeci//">Unidad Fiscal Especializada en Ciberdelincuencia (UFECI)</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.argentina.gob.ar/produccion/defensadelconsumidor/">Defensa de las y los consumidores</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Australia</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.accc.gov.au//">Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.cyber.gov.au//">Australia’s Cyber Security Center</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.esafety.gov.au//">eSafety Commissioner</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.scamwatch.gov.au//">Scamwatch/r/n

/r/n/r/n

Austria </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/\"mailto:against-cybercrime@bmi.gv.at/">Bundesministerium für Inneres</a> </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Belgium</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.police.be/fr/">Local Police</a> can help you in case you or the scam is originating from Belgium.</li>\r\n<li>Report Belgie</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://economie.fgov.be/en/">Federal Public Service Economy</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Brazil</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://cert.br//">Centro de Estudos, Resposta e Tratamento de Incidentes de Segurança no Brasil</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://igarape.org.br/en//">Igarape Institute</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Bulgaria  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.cybercrime.bg/bg/">CyberCrime.bg is the Bulgarian authority to report Cybercrime.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Canada</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.ontario.ca/page/report-scam-or-fraud/">Consumer Protection Ontario</a> will assist you on how to spot common consumer or financial scams, and how to report it as well as help if you have been scammed.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre</a> is Canada's main agency collecting information and criminal intelligence on matters such as marketing fraud, advance fee fraud, Internet fraud.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4>China</h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://tool.chinaz.com/webscan/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chinaz</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://guanjia.qq.com/online_server//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Guanjia</a> is free Tencent security management software. Through this website, you can as well report fraudulent websites.</li>\r\n<li>Ministry of Public Security (MPS)</li>\r\n<li>Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT)</li>\r\n<li>Internet Society of China (ISC)</li>\r\n<li>LieWang Platform</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Croatia</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://mup.gov.hr//">Ministry of Interior</a> is the authority to talk to in case of Croatian-based scams or fraud.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Cyprus  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Cypriot Police – <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://cybercrime.police.gov.cy/police/CyberCrime.nsf/subscribe_gr/subscribe_gr?OpenForm\%22>Online form</a> / Tel: +357 22808200, +357 22808461 - is the authority to communicate with in case of Cypriot-based online scam or fraudulent website.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Czech Republic </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.policie.cz//">Police website</a> if you face a Czech scam scheme or website.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Denmark  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Danish authority to talk to in case of scam is the Danish police, here is the <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://politi.dk//">Police website</a>.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Estonia  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Contact of the Estonian <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/\"mailto:cybercrime@politsei.ee/">Police in case of scam or fraud.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Finland  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Police website – <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.poliisi.fi/rikokset/sahkoinen_rikosilmoitus/">Finnish and <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.poliisi.fi/crimes/reporting_an_offence_online/">English/r/n/r/n
France  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.internet-signalement.gouv.fr/PortailWeb/planets/Accueil!input.action/">Internet-signalement.gouv.fr is the French government website where to report a scam in France.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.amf-france.org/en/">Authorite des Marches Financiers (AFM)</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://signal.conso.gouv.fr//">Ministry of Economic Affairs & Finance - SignalConso</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.internet-signalement.gouv.fr/PortailWeb/planets/Accueil!input.action/">Ministere of the Interior - Internet Signalement</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.signal-arnaques.com//">Signal Arnaques</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Germany</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Bundeskriminalamt - SO-4</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.polizei.de/Polizei/DE/Einrichtungen/ZAC/zac_node.html/">Zentralen Anspechstellen Cybercrime</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Greece </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.cybercc.gr//">Police – Cyber Crime Division</a> is the police branch to communicate with in case of Greek-based scam or fraud.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Hungary</strong> </h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>In case of Hungarian-based scam or fraudulent website, you can contact the Hungarian <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.police.hu/ugyintezes/">Police through their website</a>. </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>India</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>India has a <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://cybercrime.gov.in/Webform/crmcondi.aspx/">Cybercrime Reporting Portal</a> you can refer to in case of Indian-based scam.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Ireland  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>If you are facing a scam you think is Irish-based, you can take contact with the Irish National police – <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.garda.ie/en/?Page=3430&Lang=1\%22>English and <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.garda.ie/ga?Page=3430&Lang=1\%22>Gaeilge.\r\n
Commissariato di P.S.</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Japan</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.npa.go.jp/cyberpolice/english/index.html/">@Police
/r/n
Consumer Affair Agency</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Latvia</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/\"mailto:kanc@vp.gov.lv/">Report Cybercrime (email link)</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/\"mailto:abuse@cert.gov.lv/">Report Spam (email link)</a> </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Lithuania  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Lithuanian Police website is accessible in several languages – <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.epolicija.lt//">Lithuanian, <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.epolicija.lt/pl/home/">Polish, <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.epolicija.lt/ru/home/">Russian and <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.epolicija.lt/en/home/">English – in case of Lithuanian-based scam.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Luxembourg </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>If you are facing a scam or fraud you think is based in Luxembourg, you can take contacts with the <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://police.public.lu/fr/commissariat-virtuel.html/">Police through their website</a>.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Malta  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Malta has a Government website you can communicate with in <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://pulizija.gov.mt/opres/home.asp/">Malti and <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://pulizija.gov.mt/opres/home.asp?lng=1\%22>English in case of scam or fraud based in Malta.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Mexico</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.condusef.gob.mx//">Condusef
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PROFECO
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Asociación de Internet MX</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>The Netherlands  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Dutch authority to talk to in case of fraud is the Police through their website – <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.politie.nl/contact/">Dutch and <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.politie.nl/en/contact/">English.
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Consumer Protection</a> association is accessible hereby.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.netsafe.org.nz//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Netsafe</a> is New Zealand's independent, non-profit online safety organisation to communicate with in case of Scams, Bullying, Abuse.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.cert.govt.nz//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CERT NZ</a> takes care of responding to cybersecurity threats in New Zealand.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Nigeria</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.efccnigeria.org//">Economic and Financial Crimes Commission</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.cert.gov.ng//">National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT)</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Poland</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>You can access the Polish <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.policja.pl//">Police website</a> in case of Polish-based scam or fraud.</li>\r\n<li>Here is the link to the <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://pk.gov.pl//">Prosecutor’s office (Prokuratura Krajowa)</a>.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Portugal  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Portuguese <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.policiajudiciaria.pt//">Police force is reachable through this website</a> in case of Portuguese originating scam or online fraud.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Romania  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>You can communicate with the Romanian <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.politiaromana.ro/ro/petitii-online/">Police website through its online form</a> in case of online fraud involving Romania.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Saudi Arabia</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.sama.gov.sa/en-US/ConsumerProtection/Pages/home.aspx/">Consumer Protection Association Saudi Arabia</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Singapore</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.scamalert.sg//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ScamAlert</a> is a non-profit organisation committed to promoting public awareness and concern about crime.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Spain  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>You can contact the <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.policia.es/denunweb/denuncias.html/">Policia Nacional</a> in case of scam, fraud or crime involving Spain.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Slovakia  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Slovakian <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.minv.sk/?kontakty-prezidia-policajneho-zboru\%22>Ministry of Interior</a> can be contacted if you are dealing with a scam, fraud or crime.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Slovenia  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.policija.si/eng//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Slovenian Police</a> can be contacted through this website in case of scam or fraud from Slovenia.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>Sweden  </strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Swedish <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://polisen.se//">Police force can be contacted through this website</a>.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>United Kingdom</strong></h4>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.actionfraud.police.uk//">Action Fraud</a> is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/if-you-need-more-help-about-a-consumer-issue//">Citizens Advice Consumer Service</a> give people the knowledge and confidence they need to find their way forward, whoever they are and whatever their problem.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.financialfraudaction.org.uk/">Financial Fraud Action (FFA)</a> is responsible for leading the collective fight against financial fraud on behalf of the UK payments industry.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.getsafeonline.org//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Get Safe Online</a> is the UK's leading source of unbiased, factual and easy information on online safety.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4><strong>United States</strong></h4>\r\n<p>The <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.justice.gov/criminal-ccips/reporting-computer-internet-related-or-intellectual-property-crime/">United States Department of Justice</a> has stated the following when it comes to different kinds of online crimes/scams (as of publication).</p>\r\n<p><em>Computer Intrusion (i.e. hacking)</em></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/field-offices/">FBI local office</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.secretservice.gov/field_offices.shtml/">U.S. Secret Service</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx/">Internet Crime Complaint Center</a> (IC3)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><em>Password trafficking</em></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/field-offices/">FBI local office</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.secretservice.gov/field_offices.shtml/">U.S. Secret Service</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx/">Internet Crime Complaint Center</a> (IC3)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><em>Child Pornography or Exploitation</em></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/field-offices/">FBI local office</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.ice.gov//">If imported, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx/">Internet Crime Complaint Center</a> (IC3)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><em>Internet fraud and SPAM</em></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/field-offices/">FBI local office</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.secretservice.gov/field_offices.shtml/">U.S. Secret Service</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.ftc.gov//">Federal Trade Commission (online complaint)</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.sec.gov/complaint/select.shtml/">if securities fraud or investment-related SPAM e-mails, Securities and Exchange Commission (online complaint)</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx/">Internet Crime Complaint Center</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><em>Internet harassment</em></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/field-offices/">FBI local office</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><em>Other resources include:</em></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.us-cert.gov//">US-CERT – Reporting is also available via the hotline (1-888-282-0870). Phishing attempts can be directed to <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/\"mailto:phishing-report@us-cert.gov\">phishing-report@us-cert.gov.
/r/n
Anti Fraud News</a>: news site about frauds.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker/us/">BBB Scam Tracker</a>: huge list of scam reports. </li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.complaintlists.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Complaint List</a>: complaints forum.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.complaintsboard.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Complaints Board</a>: leave a complaint.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Federal Trade Commission</a> (government): learn about recent scams and how to recognize the warning signs.  </li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.onlinethreatalerts.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Online Threats Alerts</a>: An anti-cybercrime community alerting the public to online scams, fraud, and other web threats.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.scam.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Scam</a>: Scam reporting forum.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.stop419scams.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Stop 419 Scams</a>: forum on 419 Scams and Scammers<br />Exposing 419 Scams & Scammers</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.justice.gov/archives/stopfraud-archive/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Stop Scams (government)</a>:  </li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.MyWOT.com/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">MyWOT</a>: Safe Web Search & Browsing</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.ncpc.org//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Crime Prevention Counsil (NCPC)</a>: focusses on (children) education around scam (prevention).</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.ripandscam.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rip and Scam</a>: large list of different forms of scams.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.scam-detector.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Scam Detector</a>: lists 1.000 different scams.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.scamidentifier.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Scam Identifier</a>: check a website if it is a scam.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.scamrate.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Scam Rate</a>: check a website if it is a scam.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.topreviewssite.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Top Reviews Site</a>: lists scams.</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.spamlaws.com/contactus.html/">Spam laws  </a>\"dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information on issues affecting Internet security\".</li>\r\n<li><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"http://www.slamtheonlinescam.com//">Slam the Online Scam: </a>Fight Back Against Online Scams, Hackers and Cyber Attackers</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Are there organisations or contacts that are missing from this list? Please <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"contact/">contact us</a>!</p>\r\n<p><br />Apart from contact authorities to report the scam, there are steps you can take yourself in order to get your money back from scammers. Know more by visiting our section <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"how-to-get-your-money-back-from-a-scam/">How to Get Your Money Back From a Scam</a>.</p>"}}],"sidebarBlocks":[{"_template":"Small\\Content\\Cta","_identifier":"block-157084","data":{"title":"Report a Scam!","consumer":null,"description":"Have you fallen for a hoax, bought a fake product? 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If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.","description":null,"listItems":[{"_template":"Default\\Items\\ListItem","_identifier":"block-167891","data":{"title":"ScamAdviser App - iOS","titleUrl":"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scamadviser/id6480509109","linkTarget":"1","text":"Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on iOS"}},{"_template":"Default\\Items\\ListItem","_identifier":"block-167944","data":{"title":"ScamAdviser App - Android","titleUrl":"https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tech.scamadviser","linkTarget":"1","text":"Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. 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Reclaim your privacy now!"}}]}},{"_template":"Default\\Content\\Heading","_identifier":"block-59517","data":{"align":"left","text":"Popular Stories","size":"large"}},{"_template":"Default\\Content\\Blogs","_identifier":"block-59530","data":{"items":[{"id":1406,"title":"7 Best VPN Services for Security, Speed, and Privacy","url":"https://www.scamadviser.com/articles/7-best-vpn-services-for-security-speed-and-privacy","excerpt":"In a nutshell: A good VPN protects your privacy with strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and fast protocols like WireGuard. The best VPNs also offer wide server coverage, leak protection, and easy-to-use apps for all devices. For 2025, the top providers are NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost, and Mullvad—each excelling in speed, security, or value.\r\n\r\nIn an age where every click is tracked, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is no longer just a luxury—it's an essential tool for digital privacy and security. A VPN works by creating a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, masking your real IP address and protecting your sensitive data from prying eyes.\r\nBut with hundreds of providers out there, how do you sort the secure from the suspect? This guide breaks down the non-negotiable features of a quality VPN and highlights the 7 top-rated services for 2025.\r\nWhat to Look for in a Good VPN: The 4 Non-Negotiable Pillars\r\n1. Ironclad Security Features\r\n\r\nStrong Encryption: AES-256, the gold standard.\r\nSecure Protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard, NordLynx, Lightway. Avoid PPTP.\r\nKill Switch: Ensures no accidental IP leaks.\r\nLeak Protection: Covers DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC.\r\n\r\n2. Verified Privacy Practices\r\n\r\nNo-Logs Policy: No activity or metadata tracking.\r\nIndependent Audits: Verification by third parties.\r\nSafe Jurisdiction: Prefer countries outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances.\r\n\r\n3. High-Speed Performance\r\n\r\nFast Protocols: WireGuard and equivalents.\r\nLarge Server Network: Less crowding, more reliable speeds.\r\n\r\n4. Essential Usability Features\r\n\r\nMulti-Device Apps: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, routers.\r\nSimultaneous Connections: One account, many devices.\r\nUnblocking Power: Netflix, Hulu, BBC ","buttonText":"Read more","renderAsInertiaLink":false},{"id":1475,"title":"Data Breach Victim? Your Emergency Action Plan Starts Now","url":"https://www.scamadviser.com/articles/data-breach-victim-your-emergency-action-plan-starts-now","excerpt":"How to Protect Yourself and Your Family After a Data Breach\r\nWhen Your Data Falls Into the Wrong Hands\r\nJust received that terrifying notification? Or perhaps you've noticed suspicious activity in your accounts? Take a deep breath. A data breach, the unauthorized access or exposure of sensitive, protected, or confidential data, is a deeply unsettling event. It can plunge you into a world of worry, bringing risks from financial losses and identity theft to significant emotional distress and reputational damage.\r\nThe numbers don't lie: according to a 2024 report, the number of data breach victim notices has grown by a staggering 211% year-over-year. This isn't just a distant threat; it's a stark reality many individuals face. This year alone, we've seen major organizations like Adidas and Qantas grapple with high-profile data breaches, affecting countless customers. This underscores a critical truth: nobody is untouchable. Subsequently, strategic action is the only way to minimize the risk and protect your future.\r\nThis guide is your emergency action plan, designed to walk you through every crucial step—from confirming the breach to fortifying your digital life for the long term.\r\nPart 1: Confirming the Breach and Understanding the Damage\r\nThe very first step is to answer the question definitively: Was my data compromised, and if so, how badly?\r\nStart with the basics:\r\n\r\nCheck Official NotificationsReputable companies are legally obligated to inform you if your data was part of a breach. Look for official emails, letters, or public announcements.\r\nCheck Verified Breach DatabasesPlatforms like HaveIBeenPwned help you see if","buttonText":"Read more","renderAsInertiaLink":false}]}}],"meta":{"title":"How and Where to Report a Scam? | ScamAdviser","description":"Unfortunately, most people don’t know where or how to report a scam. 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How and Where to Report a Scam

Scam Trends

March 14, 2019

Everyone gets scammed at least once. Unfortunately, most people don’t know where or how to report a scam. As a result, scammers get away without so much as a slap on the wrist and continue scamming others unabated. Further, online scams are not taken seriously by authorities as the majority of them go unreported.

If you are the victim of a scam, first of all, don’t despair! You can check out our handy guide on how to handle things: I’ve Been Scammed, What Now?

Next, it is important that you take some time to report the scam not only to give yourself a chance of getting your money back, but also to prevent others from getting scammed in the future. In this article, we have put together a list of authorities dealing with cybercrime in each country. Learn about who you should contact to report a scam and how to make sure you have the best possibility to stop the scammers!

How to collect evidence of the scam

The following steps are adapted from Jennifer Mueller’s article at wikiHow:

Step 1: Write down the order of events

When you’ve been scammed, the process leading up to this point can be weeks or months, involving email communication, payment, delivery etc. It can be helpful to sit down and think through the order of what has led to the scam itself. Below is an example:

Saw an advertisement on Instagram for shoes

Clicked the advertisements and ordered a pair of shoes on the site

Received a tracking email from the company

The delivery date was missed

Emailed the company on <date>

Never received a reply

Emailed twice more on <dates>

Complained to my bank and the amount was refunded to my account <date>

It might sound like a simple exercise, but this allows you to collect as much relevant information as possible which may be useful when reporting a scam. It can also help you identify the parties involved with whom you can get in touch for a resolution.

Step 2: Keep copies of online locations and online files/documents related to the scam

This is an important step and can include the collection of the following:

Emails

Electronic files

Save relevant webpages (in case the scammer shuts the site down)

Take screenshots of online evidence that is hard to save

Step 3: Collect non-electronic evidence related to the scam

If you have purchased a product or service, often there will be evidence such as receipts, bank statements etc. that can be useful. It’s better to be meticulous when collecting this information, as even tiny details can help authorities identify and track down the scammer!

Where can I report a scammer?

That might sound simple, but with the global nature of the internet often the victims, criminals and the goods can be in three different locations. However, if you have been threatened by the scammer, our advice would be to contact local law enforcement immediately.

So, we’ve put together a handy guide on law enforcement and government agencies you can contact in order to report an online scam. We’ve ordered it by country/region to help you find the most relevant organizations.

Step-by-step guides

Australia: How to Report a Scam to ScamWatch

UK: How to Report a Scam to Action Fraud UK

USA: How to Report a Scam to the FBI IC3

International/global organisations

Econsumer.gov allows you to press charges against and help to identify international scam schemes.

About Fraud is a global community for fraud professionals.

Europol supports EU members in their fight against terrorism, cybercrime and other serious and organised forms of crime.

Merchant Risk Council is a network of over 550+ companies focused on fraud prevention, payments optimization and risk management.

Argentina

Argentine Association for the Fight Against Cybercrime (AALCC)

Unidad Fiscal Especializada en Ciberdelincuencia (UFECI)

Defensa de las y los consumidores

Australia

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)

Australia’s Cyber Security Center

eSafety Commissioner

Scamwatch

Scamnet

Austria

Bundesministerium für Inneres

Belgium

Local Police can help you in case you or the scam is originating from Belgium.

Report Belgie

Federal Public Service Economy

Brazil

Centro de Estudos, Resposta e Tratamento de Incidentes de Segurança no Brasil

Igarape Institute

Bulgaria

CyberCrime.bg is the Bulgarian authority to report Cybercrime.

Canada

Consumer Protection Ontario will assist you on how to spot common consumer or financial scams, and how to report it as well as help if you have been scammed.

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is Canada's main agency collecting information and criminal intelligence on matters such as marketing fraud, advance fee fraud, Internet fraud.

China

Chinaz

Guanjia is free Tencent security management software. Through this website, you can as well report fraudulent websites.

Ministry of Public Security (MPS)

Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT)

Internet Society of China (ISC)

LieWang Platform

Croatia

Ministry of Interior is the authority to talk to in case of Croatian-based scams or fraud.

Cyprus

The Cypriot Police – Online form / Tel: +357 22808200, +357 22808461 - is the authority to communicate with in case of Cypriot-based online scam or fraudulent website.

Czech Republic

Police website if you face a Czech scam scheme or website.

Denmark

The Danish authority to talk to in case of scam is the Danish police, here is the Police website.

Estonia

Contact of the Estonian Police in case of scam or fraud.

Finland

Police website – Finnish and English

France

Internet-signalement.gouv.fr is the French government website where to report a scam in France.

Authorite des Marches Financiers (AFM)

Ministry of Economic Affairs & Finance - SignalConso

Ministere of the Interior - Internet Signalement

Signal Arnaques

Germany

Bundeskriminalamt - SO-4

Zentralen Anspechstellen Cybercrime

Greece

Police – Cyber Crime Division is the police branch to communicate with in case of Greek-based scam or fraud.

Hungary

In case of Hungarian-based scam or fraudulent website, you can contact the Hungarian Police through their website.

India

India has a Cybercrime Reporting Portal you can refer to in case of Indian-based scam.

Ireland

If you are facing a scam you think is Irish-based, you can take contact with the Irish National police – English and Gaeilge.

FraudSmart is a fraud awareness initiative aiming at raising consumer and business awareness of the latest financial fraud activity and trends.

Italy

You can communicate with the Italian Police in case of Italian scam or fraud: Commissariato di P.S.

Japan

@Police

Consumer Affair Agency

Latvia

Report Cybercrime (email link)

Report Spam (email link)

Lithuania

The Lithuanian Police website is accessible in several languages – Lithuanian, Polish, Russian and English – in case of Lithuanian-based scam.

Luxembourg

If you are facing a scam or fraud you think is based in Luxembourg, you can take contacts with the Police through their website.

Malta

Malta has a Government website you can communicate with in Malti and English in case of scam or fraud based in Malta.

Mexico

Condusef

PROFECO

Asociación de Internet MX

The Netherlands

The Dutch authority to talk to in case of fraud is the Police through their website – Dutch and English.

Fraudehelpdesk (consumers) is a national source of information and an effective weapon against fraudsters for consumers.

Fraudeinfodesk (businesses) the same service is here for businesses.

New Zealand

The New Zealand Consumer Protection association is accessible hereby.

Netsafe is New Zealand's independent, non-profit online safety organisation to communicate with in case of Scams, Bullying, Abuse.

CERT NZ takes care of responding to cybersecurity threats in New Zealand.

Nigeria

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission

National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT)

Poland

You can access the Polish Police website in case of Polish-based scam or fraud.

Here is the link to the Prosecutor’s office (Prokuratura Krajowa).

Portugal

The Portuguese Police force is reachable through this website in case of Portuguese originating scam or online fraud.

Romania

You can communicate with the Romanian Police website through its online form in case of online fraud involving Romania.

Saudi Arabia

Consumer Protection Association Saudi Arabia

Singapore

ScamAlert is a non-profit organisation committed to promoting public awareness and concern about crime.

Spain

You can contact the Policia Nacional in case of scam, fraud or crime involving Spain.

Slovakia

The Slovakian Ministry of Interior can be contacted if you are dealing with a scam, fraud or crime.

Slovenia

The Slovenian Police can be contacted through this website in case of scam or fraud from Slovenia.

Sweden

The Swedish Police force can be contacted through this website.

United Kingdom

Action Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.

Citizens Advice Consumer Service give people the knowledge and confidence they need to find their way forward, whoever they are and whatever their problem.

Financial Fraud Action (FFA) is responsible for leading the collective fight against financial fraud on behalf of the UK payments industry.

Get Safe Online is the UK's leading source of unbiased, factual and easy information on online safety.

United States

The United States Department of Justice has stated the following when it comes to different kinds of online crimes/scams (as of publication).

Computer Intrusion (i.e. hacking)

FBI local office

U.S. Secret Service

Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

Password trafficking

FBI local office

U.S. Secret Service

Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

Child Pornography or Exploitation

FBI local office

If imported, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

Internet fraud and SPAM

FBI local office

U.S. Secret Service

Federal Trade Commission (online complaint)

if securities fraud or investment-related SPAM e-mails, Securities and Exchange Commission (online complaint)

Internet Crime Complaint Center

Internet harassment

FBI local office

Other resources include:

US-CERT – Reporting is also available via the hotline (1-888-282-0870). Phishing attempts can be directed to phishing-report@us-cert.gov.

Anti Fraud News: news site about frauds.

BBB Scam Tracker: huge list of scam reports.

Complaint List: complaints forum.

Complaints Board: leave a complaint.

Federal Trade Commission (government): learn about recent scams and how to recognize the warning signs.

Online Threats Alerts: An anti-cybercrime community alerting the public to online scams, fraud, and other web threats.

Scam: Scam reporting forum.

Stop 419 Scams: forum on 419 Scams and Scammers
Exposing 419 Scams & Scammers

Stop Scams (government):

MyWOT: Safe Web Search & Browsing

National Crime Prevention Counsil (NCPC): focusses on (children) education around scam (prevention).

Rip and Scam: large list of different forms of scams.

Scam Detector: lists 1.000 different scams.

Scam Identifier: check a website if it is a scam.

Scam Rate: check a website if it is a scam.

Top Reviews Site: lists scams.

Spam laws "dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information on issues affecting Internet security".

Slam the Online Scam: Fight Back Against Online Scams, Hackers and Cyber Attackers

Are there organisations or contacts that are missing from this list? Please contact us!

Apart from contact authorities to report the scam, there are steps you can take yourself in order to get your money back from scammers. Know more by visiting our section How to Get Your Money Back From a Scam.

Report a Scam!

Have you fallen for a hoax, bought a fake product? Report the site and warn others!

Report a Scam!

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How and Where to Report a Scam

How to collect evidence of the scam

Step 1: Write down the order of events

Step 2: Keep copies of online locations and online files/documents related to the scam

Step 3: Collect non-electronic evidence related to the scam

Where can I report a scammer?

Step-by-step guides

International/global organisations

Argentina

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Belgium

Brazil

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Canada

China

Croatia

Cyprus

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Estonia

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

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