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How Do I File a Scam Report?

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File a Scam Report and Help Other Consumers Stay Safe

Sadly, scams have become a part of life.  But that doesn’t mean you need to remain a helpless victim!

If you are a scam victim or simply suspect foul play, contact eConsumer Services® immediately to file a scam report.  We specialize in consumer protection and can help you make things right.

To get the process started, fill out the form to the right.

Important Things to Know about a Scam Report

Before receiving the answer to how to report a scam, you must first identify your purpose.  Do you want to get your money back?  Do you want to file a criminal report and press charges?  Or do you simply want other people to be aware of the fraudster?

Knowing these things will help guide your actions when it comes time to notify the correct people.

If you want your money back, contact eConsumer Services®.  They will work within their network of merchants to secure a refund.

If you want to notify law enforcement officials, you’ll need to contact the agency(s) most appropriate to the scam at hand.  For example, you wouldn’t report scam phone calls to the same organizations that help you file a complaint against an online business.

If you want to tell other people about the scam and raise awareness, you might just want to file a Rip Off Report.  While this step is sure to brand the fraudster for life, it won’t do anything to get your money back or bring about justice.

Taking Additional Action

Knowing how to report scams is only one piece to the puzzle.  If you have actually been taken in by the fraudster, you’ll need to take additional steps to ensure your safety.

For example, if you were scammed with your credit card, you’ll probably want to know how to get a credit card refund.  Getting your money back will probably be a lengthy process, so you’ll need to get started right away.

You’ll also want to take the necessary steps to protect your identity.  If you think your identity has been compromised, you’ll need to take the following action right away:

  • Set a fraud alert.  This tells businesses they must contact you before giving anyone else credit in your name.  There are two types of fraud alert:
    • An initial alert is active for 90 days.  Use this if you think your identity has been compromised.
    • An extended alert will last for seven years.  This should be used if you know you were a victim of identity theft.
  • Contact the credit agencies (Equifax, Experian, and Transunion).
  • Get a copy of your credit report (available for free to identity theft victims).  Check for anomalies.
  • File an identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission.

Knowing how to report scams is important – but not as important as taking action.  It is always helpful to let other consumers know about current scams.  However, it is even better to bring those criminals to justice.  Report a scam to the authorities and do your part to end the crime forever.