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If this is happening now

Do the first-hour steps before you explain the whole story to anyone. Speed matters more than a perfect write-up.

Stop the bleeding

  1. Hang up, log out, or stop the chat. Do not send another code, photo, or payment.

  2. Call your bank or card company and say the word fraud. Ask them to freeze the card or reverse the transfer.

  3. If you sent crypto, contact the exchange and ATM operator in writing. Do not pay a "recovery agent."

  4. Change passwords on email and banking. Turn on two-factor authentication.

  5. If they have your SSN or ID, freeze credit at all three bureaus and file at IdentityTheft.gov.

  6. Tell one trusted person. Scam isolation is part of the crime.

  7. Submit a report on this site and file FTC + IC3.

What NOT to do

  • Do not pay a second person claiming they can freeze a wallet or unlock funds.

  • Do not give remote access to your computer.

  • Do not send more money to "release" a refund.

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