Fraud and scams

Losing money or property to scams and fraud can be devastating. Our resources can help you prevent, recognize, and report scams and fraud.

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Basics

Learn about common types of scams

Scams are constantly changing. You can protect yourself by knowing what to look out for. Read more

Understand identity theft

Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud. No matter how much goes missing, you should take action. Read more

Learn how to protect yourself and others from fraud and scams

Fraud and scams can happen at any time and any place. It’s important to know the warning signs. Read more

Key terms

• Elder financial exploitation
• Foreclosure relief scam
• Fraud alert for prevention
• Fraud by fiduciaries
• Identity theft
• Imposter scams
• Mail fraud
• Phishing
• Security freeze for prevention
• Spoofing
• Wire or money transfer fraud
• Explore key terms

Best practices and leading research for helping others with money questions

Understand your situation

Common issues

• You notice an unauthorized transaction or money missing from your bank account
• You and your family are worried about fraud after a natural disaster
• You think a family member or friend might be the victim of financial exploitation
• Explore common issues

Know your rights

• Find out how to get your money back if someone took funds out of your checking account without approval
• Consider adding your phone number to the National Do Not Call Registry
• Contact your local adult protective services agency if the victim is an older person or a person with a disability
• Explore your rights

Take action

How-to guides

• How to get help if you are the victim of a scam
• How to manage someone else’s money responsibly
• How to spot the classic warning signs of fraud and scams
• Explore how-to guides

Submit a complaint

You can submit a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

About us

We're the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a U.S. government agency that makes sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat you fairly.

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How the CFPB is protecting you

• Top 10 ways to protect yourself in the wake of the Equifax data breach
• A financial toolkit for victims of hurricanes Maria, Irma, and Harvey
• Don’t let malicious mail make off with your money

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Legal disclaimer

The content on this page provides general consumer information. It is not legal advice or regulatory guidance. The CFPB updates this information periodically. This information may include links or references to third-party resources or content. We do not endorse the third-party or guarantee the accuracy of this third-party information. There may be other resources that also serve your needs.