If you’ve been scammed, start here

Protect what you still have

1. Stop sending money, even if you’re told one more payment will unlock your funds.
2. If a wallet or seed phrase may be compromised, move the remaining funds to a new wallet with a new seed phrase, using a device you trust.
3. Remove suspicious token approvals using a tool you already trust.
4. Change passwords for any affected exchange or email account, and turn on strong two-factor sign-in.

Save the evidence

• Transaction hashes and wallet addresses
• Website addresses, usernames and phone numbers
• Screenshots of messages, dates and amounts

Keep these even if the scammer deletes their accounts.

Report it

• Tell any exchange or service involved right away, using its official site or app. It may be able to flag or freeze funds still on its platform.
• In the US, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center and the FTC’s ReportFraud site.
• Elsewhere, contact your national police or fraud-reporting service.

Avoid the second scam

Be wary of anyone who contacts you offering to recover your crypto, including people claiming to be police or lawyers. Don’t pay an upfront fee, and don’t share your seed phrase or connect your wallet.

Losing money to a scam can be very upsetting. Talk to someone you trust, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to a local support service.

By [Author name]. Reviewed by [Editor name]. Draft for editor review.