What to do if you've been scammed
In short. Act fast: contact your bank straight away to try to stop or recover the payment, report it to Action Fraud (or Police Scotland on 101), and change any passwords that may be compromised. For bank-transfer scams you may be entitled to reimbursement, usually within five business days.
Realising you have been scammed is stressful, but acting quickly gives you the best chance of getting your money back and limiting the damage. The first hours matter most — especially for contacting your bank. This guide sets out the steps in order.
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Do these things straight away
- Contact your bank immediately using the number on your card — speed helps it try to freeze or recover the money
- Report the fraud to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 (England, Wales and NI) or Police Scotland on 101
- Change passwords and PINs for any account that may be compromised, and turn on two-factor authentication
- Keep a record of what happened: dates, amounts, names and any messages or reference numbers
- If you shared card details, ask your bank to block the card; if you shared identity details, consider a CIFAS protective registration
Getting your money back
If you were tricked into authorising a bank transfer (an APP scam), mandatory reimbursement rules introduced on 7 October 2024 mean most victims should be reimbursed, usually within five business days, up to £85,000 per claim.
If your card was used without your authority, you are protected under the Payment Services Regulations and should be refunded. Credit card purchases between £100 and £30,000 may also be covered by Section 75, and other card payments by chargeback.
If your bank refuses to help, ask for the decision in writing and complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service, which reviews disputes for free.
Watch out for follow-up scams
After a scam, fraudsters often return posing as your bank, the police or a 'recovery' firm that can get your money back for an upfront fee. These recovery-room scams are second-stage fraud — never pay to recover lost money.
FAQ
Will I get my money back if I was scammed?
Often, yes. For bank-transfer (APP) scams, mandatory reimbursement rules mean most victims are reimbursed up to £85,000, usually within five business days. Unauthorised card transactions are also protected. Report it to your bank immediately.
Who do I report a scam to?
Report to your bank first, then to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 (or Police Scotland on 101). Forward scam texts to 7726 and phishing emails to [email protected].
What if my bank refuses to refund me?
Ask for the decision in writing, then complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service, which can review bank and APP scam decisions for free.