What to do if you've been scammed
If money has been taken from you fraudulently, there are steps you can take to try to get your money back.
- If you paid by credit or debit card, contact your bank or building society to alert them. In certain circumstances, they may reimburse you for the money you lost. Credit card and debit card protection explained
- If you paid for a fraudulent product through a bank transfer, contact your bank or building society as they may be able to stop the transaction before it completes.
- Report fraud or cyber crime to the police at Action Fraud - they may investigate the crime and may be able to recover some of the funds.
- Contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service - if you've signed a contract. They'll be able to offer you advice and may be able to help you find out what legal actions you can take to get your money back.
- If you were scammed by a seller on a legitimate site, contact them directly. Some sites offer a money-back guarantee if you fall victim to a fake seller on their site.
- The Financial Ombudsman Service is a free and easy-to-use service that settles complaints between consumers and businesses that provide financial services. They resolve disputes fairly and impartially and have the power to put things right.