Older Adults & Families · Lesson 20
What to Do If a Scam Happens
Speed, documentation and transparency can reduce the damage.
- Contact the bank, card issuer, brokerage, payment provider or other institution immediately.
- Ask about fraud procedures, recalls or reversals.
- Secure accounts and change compromised credentials.
- Review credit and consider appropriate fraud alerts or freezes.
- Document communications, transactions and evidence.
- Report the fraud through appropriate official channels.
- Tell family promptly. Do not let shame delay action.
- Be suspicious of anyone who offers guaranteed recovery for an upfront fee.
Speed, documentation and transparency can reduce the damage.
This is Lesson 20 of the Financial Scams Education Series (Older Adults & Families). Continue with Companion Worksheet & Checklist.
This article is for educational purposes and is not legal, tax, insurance, cybersecurity, or law-enforcement advice. Scam tactics change. If you think you have been scammed, contact your financial institution immediately and consider reporting to appropriate authorities. Su Bella Vida is not a bank, broker, CPA, or law firm. Read our terms & disclaimer.