Frequently Asked Questions
What is the very first thing I should do if I think I’ve been scammed?
First, stop all contact with the scammer immediately. Do not send any more money. Second, contact your bank or financial institution to report the fraud and see if any transactions can be stopped. Third, report the scam to the FBI at ic3.gov and the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. There is no shame in being a victim, and your report can help protect others.
Why do scammers always ask for payment in gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency?
Scammers prefer these methods because they are very difficult to trace and nearly impossible to reverse. Once you send money this way, it’s like sending cash—it’s gone for good. A request for payment via these methods is a massive red flag that you are dealing with a scammer.
I feel embarrassed that I almost fell for a scam. Is this common?
Yes, it is incredibly common. Please do not feel embarrassed. These criminals are professional manipulators who prey on human emotions like trust, fear, and love. They deceive people of all ages and backgrounds. The best thing you can do is share your experience with friends and family to help them avoid the same trap.
This article reports on recent health news. You can often find the original studies or press releases at sources like the NIH Newsroom or on medical journals. For policy updates, refer to Medicare.gov or HHS.gov.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
