If you think you have been scammed, call your bank straight away using the number on the back of your card or on its official website, or dial 159. Then report it to Report Fraud (or Police Scotland on 101 if you live in Scotland), secure your accounts and start keeping a record. Acting quickly gives your bank the best chance to stop more money leaving and to try to trace what has gone.
It is normal to feel shocked, embarrassed or frightened right now. Scams are crimes, and the people behind them are skilled at fooling careful people. You have done nothing wrong by asking for help.
What should I do first?
Work through these steps in order. You do not have to do everything in one go, but the first two matter most.
- Stop any more payments. Do not send any more money, even if the scammer says it will unlock your funds or fix a problem.
- Call your bank. Use the number on your card, your statement or the bank's own website. You can also dial 159, a short number that connects you to many UK banks. Ask them to stop or recall the payment and to block your cards if needed.
- Stop all contact with the scammer. Do not reply, argue or warn them. Block the number or account, but keep the messages first (see below).
- Report it. Report to Report Fraud online or on 0300 123 2040 if you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101.
- Secure your accounts. Change passwords, starting with your email, and turn on 2-step verification.
- Write down what happened while it is fresh in your mind.
If you feel in danger, or the scammer is nearby or threatening you, call 999.
Why does calling my bank quickly matter?
Banks can sometimes stop a payment that has not finished, or ask the bank that received the money to freeze it. The longer the gap, the more time the scammer has to move it on.
If you were tricked into sending a bank transfer on or after 7 October 2024, you may be able to claim a refund under the UK's reimbursement rules for authorised push payment (APP) scams. You should report it to your bank as soon as you can, and within 13 months of the last payment. Read our guide to getting your money back after an APP scam.
When you call, tell the bank:
- the date, amount and recipient of each payment
- how you paid (bank transfer, card, cash withdrawal, crypto purchase)
- how the scammer contacted you
- whether you shared any codes, passwords or card details
Ask for a reference number for the call and write down the name of the person you spoke to.
What if I gave away my details or let someone into my computer?
If you shared a one-time passcode, password or card details, tell your bank so it can block the card and watch your account. Your bank will never ask you to share your PIN or full password, and you should never share these with anyone.
If someone connected to your computer or phone using remote access software, disconnect it from the internet and remove the app. Then change your passwords from a different device you trust. Our guide to remote access fraud explains more, and protecting your accounts walks you through it step by step.
How do I report the scam?
Report Fraud replaced Action Fraud as the national reporting service for England, Wales and Northern Ireland. You can report on the Report Fraud website or by phone on 0300 123 2040. Keep the crime reference number you are given, as your bank may ask for it.
You can also report:
- scam texts by forwarding them to 7726
- scam emails by forwarding them to report@phishing.gov.uk
- scams to Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133, who pass reports to Trading Standards
See our full guide to reporting fraud in the UK.
What should I keep as evidence?
Do not delete anything, even if it feels upsetting to look at. Take screenshots of messages, profiles, websites and payment confirmations before the scammer deletes them. Save bank statements and emails. Our guide on how to preserve evidence lists what to keep.
Watch out for a second scam
People who have just lost money are often targeted again. You may get calls or messages from someone saying they are from your bank, the police or a recovery company and that they can get your money back for a fee. The Financial Conduct Authority warns that fraudsters may sell your details on to other criminals. Read about fund recovery scams before you speak to anyone offering help.
You do not need to pay anyone to report a scam or to complain to your bank. If you would like free support working out your next steps, you can get help from us.
Frequently asked questions
Is it too late if more than 24 hours have passed?
No. Acting fast helps, but it is still worth calling your bank and reporting the scam days, weeks or months later. For APP scam refunds, you should report within 13 months of the last payment.
Should I call the police on 999?
Call 999 if you are in danger or a crime is happening right now. Otherwise, report to Report Fraud, or to Police Scotland on 101 if you live in Scotland. Citizens Advice suggests calling the police on 101 if the scammer is in your area or you sent money in the last 24 hours.
Will my bank think I was stupid?
Banks deal with scams every day and know how convincing they are. Be honest about what happened. Holding back details can slow down your claim.
Can I get my money back?
Sometimes, but it depends on how you paid and what happened. Bank transfers in the UK may be covered by the reimbursement rules, and card payments have their own protections. No one can promise a recovery, so be wary of anyone who does.