If You are a Victim of Online Fraud

If you have lost money to a fraud or scam on the Internet, it is highly unlikely that you will be able to recover any money lost. However, it is important that you report the fraud or scam to the authorities in an attempt to shut the scam down.

Are you a victim of identity theft?

If you have given out personal information but have not lost any money, you are a potential victim of identity theft, which has the potential to more serious than the simple loss of money. For more information, see If you believe you are a victim of identity theft.

Bank account or credit card fraud

If you have lost money due to fraudulent transactions on your bank account or credit card, notify the institution immediately. Depending on the institution, you may be liable for part of the loss.

Nigerian 419 letter scam

Report the scam to your local authorities.

The U.S. Secret Service has instructed anyone in the US who has lost funds because of this scam to forward appropriate written documentation to:

U.S. Secret Service
Financial Crimes Division
950 H Street, NW,
Washington, DC 20001.
(202) 406-5850
Or send e-mail to 419.fcd@usss.treas.gov

All other Internet scams where you have lost money

All other Internet Scams where you have lost money should be reported to the FTC's initiative eConsumer.gov, a joint project of consumer protection agencies from 17 nations.

Visit eConsumer.gov for information on complaint procedures and information on the possibility of resolving complaints.