Stop and call your bank
Call the fraud line using the number on the back of your card or on your bank's official website, not a number from a message or a caller. Say clearly that you have been the victim of fraud and list the payments you are worried about.
Banks can sometimes stop a payment that is still processing, or ask the receiving bank to freeze money that has not yet been moved on. Every hour counts, so do this before anything else.
Cut off the scammer
- Stop replying. Do not send more money, even if you are promised your funds back once you pay a fee.
- Uninstall any remote-access app you were asked to download, and restart the device.
- Change the passwords for your email and online banking, starting with email.
- Turn on two-step verification wherever it is offered.
Report it
Report the crime to the police or your national fraud reporting service and write down the reference number. Your bank and the ombudsman may ask for it later.
Start a record while it is fresh
- Screenshots of every message, including the sender's name, number or profile.
- Website addresses, app names and any wallet or account details you paid to.
- Bank statements showing each payment.
- A short timeline in your own words: first contact, each payment, when you realised.
Be ready for a second scam
People who have just lost money are often contacted by fake "recovery" services or callers pretending to be the police or your bank. Treat any unexpected contact with suspicion and check it through official channels first.