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Where to report a scam

Different problems go to different places. Start with the row that matches your situation. Report even if you did not lose money.

Reporting is not the same as getting money back. The FTC and others say contact the company you paid with first (see After a scam). We cannot report for you or recover money, and we never ask for your information.
National directory. Last verified October 17, 2026. Links go to the official source.
Your situationWhoWhat to doPhone / hours
Any scam, any amount (start here)Federal Trade Commission (FTC)Report online at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Online or cyber-enabled fraud, especially if you lost moneyFBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)File a complaint at ic3.gov. Keep original records (emails, letters, receipts), transaction details, and the bank accounts, addresses, emails, websites and phone numbers the criminals used.
You or a loved one is age 60+ and want help reportingNational Elder Fraud Hotline (U.S. DOJ Office for Victims of Crime)Call. A case manager helps with reporting at federal, state and local levels. Free.833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311), Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ET
You want to talk it through or ask 'is this a scam?'AARP Fraud Watch Network HelplineCall. Guidance and support for your situation, not investigation or case recovery (AARP's wording).877-908-3360, Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-8 p.m. ET
You gave a scammer your Social Security number or personal informationIdentityTheft.gov (FTC)Report and get a recovery plan; if you are not sure the number was used, follow identitytheft.gov/databreach.
You sent cash or a package through the U.S. MailU.S. Postal Inspection ServiceCall right away. The FTC says for a fee they can intercept a domestic package that has not been delivered.1-877-876-2455
Someone claiming to be Medicare or a Medicare fraud concernSenior Medicare Patrol (SMP) / 1-800-MEDICARE / HHS-OIGCall SMP for help; find your state SMP; or call 1-800-MEDICARE; or the OIG hotline.SMP 877-808-2468 (Mon-Fri 9-5:30 ET); 1-800-MEDICARE 1-800-633-4227; OIG 1-800-447-8477
Someone claiming to be the IRSIRS / TIGTACheck your tax account online or call the IRS; report impersonators to TIGTA.IRS 800-829-1040
Someone claiming to be Social SecuritySSA Office of the Inspector GeneralReport the call or message.
A scam text messageYour wireless provider and the FTCForward the text to 7726 (SPAM), use your phone's report-junk option, then report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Delete it.7726 (SPAM)
An older adult is being exploited, especially by someone close to themAdult Protective Services (APS) via Eldercare LocatorCall the Eldercare Locator to be connected to your state or local APS. If someone is in immediate danger call 911.1-800-677-1116, Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-8 p.m. ET (ACL page)
A business or person in your stateState attorney general or state consumer protection officeUse the state directory on this site (links from USA.gov).
You paid by bank transfer, Zelle, card, payment app, wire, gift card, crypto or ATMThe company you paid withReport to them immediately and ask for a refund or reversal. See After a scam.Number on the back of your card or on your statement

By type of scam

Your state

State and territory consumer offices

Other trusted tools

We are one of several guides, not the only or best one. These tools are made by others and we do not control them.

What to have ready when you report

The FBI's filing tips list: original records (emails, letters, checks, receipts, shipping documents); financial transaction information; and information the criminals used, such as bank accounts, addresses, emails, websites and phone numbers. Contact your financial institutions to protect your accounts and the credit bureaus to monitor for suspicious activity.

Is that phone number really the Hotline?

The National Elder Fraud Hotline warns scammers have pretended to be the Hotline and threatened people with lawsuits. Hotline staff will not ask for money or Social Security numbers. If you get such a call, report it to the FTC, then tell the Hotline at 833-372-8311.

Sources

Last verified: October 17, 2026. We link to the original public pages. Hotline hours and agency advice can change; check the linked page.