Smart Cents

Think you paid a scammer or shared personal info? Here’s what to do:

If you paid a scammer.

• Credit/Debit Card: Call your bank or card issuer. Report the fraud and ask for a reversal.
• Bank Transfer: Contact your bank, report the unauthorized withdrawal, and request a refund.
• Gift Card: Call the company that issued the card. Explain it was a scam and ask for a refund. Save the card and receipt.
• Wire Transfer: Contact the company ASAP and ask to reverse the transfer.
• Money Transfer Apps: Report the fraud to the app and your bank/credit card provider.
• Cryptocurrency: Reversals are rare, but contact the platform you used and report the fraud.
• Cash (via mail): Call the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455 to intercept the package. Contact other delivery services ASAP.

If you gave away personal info:

• Social Security Number: Visit IdentityTheft.gov for steps to protect your identity.
• Username/Password: Change your password immediately. Update it anywhere you have reused it.

If a scammer accessed your device:

• Computer Remote Access: Run a security scan and delete any threats. Protect your personal info.
• Phone Access: Contact your service provider to regain control. Change your account password and monitor your financial accounts for fraud.