KC Senior Guide

Scam & Fraud Protection

If you've been scammed: what to do now

First: it is not your fault, and you are far from alone — these criminals are professionals. What matters now is acting quickly. The faster you move, the more you can often limit the damage.

Right now, in order:
  1. Stop all contact with the scammer.
  2. Call your bank or card company to stop or reverse payments and protect your accounts.
  3. Report it — FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and your state hotline (below).
  4. Protect your identity — change passwords, consider freezing your credit.
  5. Tell someone you trust. You don't have to handle this alone.

1. Stop the bleeding

Cut off contact and act on the money fast:

  • Bank transfer or check: call your bank immediately — some transfers can be stopped or reversed if you act quickly.
  • Credit or debit card: call the number on the back to dispute the charge and get a new card.
  • Gift cards: contact the card company (the brand on the card) right away — sometimes funds can be frozen. Keep the card and receipt.
  • Wire transfer: contact the wire service (and your bank) at once to try to recall it.

2. Report it

  • Federal Trade Commission: ReportFraud.ftc.gov (this also generates a recovery plan).
  • Your local police — a report can help with banks and insurance.
  • Elder-exploitation hotlines: Kansas 1-800-922-5330 · Missouri 1-800-392-0210.
  • State Attorney General consumer protection: Kansas 1-800-432-2310 · Missouri 1-800-392-8222.
  • Online crime / money lost online: the FBI's IC3 at ic3.gov.

3. Protect your identity and credit

  • Change passwords on any accounts that may be exposed (especially email and banking).
  • Freeze your credit — free at all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). It blocks new accounts in your name.
  • If your Social Security number was shared, go to IdentityTheft.gov for a step-by-step recovery plan.
  • Watch for follow-up scams. Scammers often come back posing as a "recovery service" that can get your money back — for a fee. That's another scam.

You're not alone

Shame keeps people silent, which is exactly what scammers count on. Telling a family member, your bank, and the authorities is the strongest thing you can do — both to protect yourself and to help stop them from hurting someone else. For free, supportive help, the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline (1-877-908-3360) is open to anyone.

This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. If you're in immediate danger, call 911.