5 Steps to Take when You’ve been Scammed

^{Image by Arek Socha from Pixabay}

Contrary to popular perception, it’s not only the most vulnerable or gullible who fall prey to scams. Some of these scammers are professional con artists. They work in teams and have developed techniques that could trick just about anyone.

Below are 5 steps you can do if you have been scammed or think you’ve been scammed.

1. Stop Contact with the Scammer

It is important that you stop all contact with this scammer. Do not reply to an email, take phone calls, or continue any other types of communication.

Scammers are after one thing, your money. They will trick you into giving them your money or get as much information about you in order to get access to your accounts.

The less contact you have with them, the less likely they can get access.

2. Check your Computer

If the scammer got remote access to your computer, then it is possible they still have access to it. You should uninstall any of the remote applications installed.

Common applications below:

• AnyDesk
• GoToAssist
• LogMeIn
• Supremo
• TeamViewer

If you need some help with checking your computer, send me a message. ruben@upstartsecurity.com

3. Check your Bank Accounts

If at any time you discussed your bank account or logged in to your account, call your bank. Let them know the situation and they can provide assistance in protecting your account.

You should avoid logging into your bank on the computer that the scammers had access to. That is just in case the scammer still has access to your computer.

Use a different computer to access your account or your phone. Or just look up your bank’s phone number and call them.

4. Change your Passwords

It’s good practice to change your password on a regular basis. More so if you think you’ve been scammed.

Also, consider enabling two-factor authentication. This adds an additional authentication check to your account. So even if someone got your password, they still won’t be able to access your account without this additional check.

5. Report the Incident

Report the Scam to the FTC. Even if nothing was taken from you, this report helps the FTC build cases against scammers.

You also should report it to any involved services like Facebook, Instagram, PayPal, Amazon, eBay, etc.

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Conclusion

Unfortunately, scams happen every day. I hope that these steps help you to minimize the stress & financial hardship these scammers may have caused.

Please reach out to me if any help in dealing with this. ruben@upstartsecurity.com