If someone tricks you in a scam, do something right away. Reporting it quickly can sometimes help you get your money back. It also helps protect your bank accounts and other money from being stolen again.
What you need to do depends on the type of fraud you experienced.
Identity Theft
Identity theft should be reported to the local police and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
- You can call the FTC at 1-877-438-4338
- You can also make your report to the FTC online at identitytheft.gov
If money was taken from your bank account or if money was spent on a credit card, contact your bank or the credit card company right away.
You should also get a copy of your credit report to see if anyone has opened accounts in your name. Contact the three credit bureaus and ask them to put a freeze on your credit so no one else can open new accounts without your permission. Read more about identity theft from the NY Attorney General’s Office.
Scammers saying they are the IRS
The IRS will never ask for any payment information over the phone (for example, credit card, debit card or prepaid card information).
Report someone pretending to be the IRS to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 1-800-366-4484.
You can also report the scam online.
- Report the scam to the IRS at irs.gov/uac/report-phishing.
- Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ftccomplaintassistant.gov.
Imposter Scams
An impostor pretends to be someone else, maybe someone you know or a business or charity you trust. Impostor scams can be over the phone, email or through the mail.
Common impostor scams include someone pretending to be
- a debt collector
- a debt settlement company or offering debt relief
- a foreclosure relief company
- a relative or grandchild in need of money or a gift card
- someone you know or trust like a sheriff, local, state or federal government employee
- your real estate agent, attorney, escrow officer or title company
Lottery, sweepstakes or prize scams are also impostor scams.
Sometimes the impostor will ask for an upfront payment or for you to transfer or wire them money.
Report impostor scams and financial abuse to the:
If you believe someone is in danger, call 911.
Last Reviewed: October 8, 2025