Report a scam in Japan

Use the official channels below. If you are in immediate danger, contact local emergency services first.

Emergency only

110

Use only if you are in immediate danger.

Official reporting channels

National Police Agency (Cybercrime)
Last checked 2026-06-05

Report cybercrime via the National Police Agency / prefectural police.

Source type: police
Open official website
JPCERT/CC
Last checked 2026-06-05

Japan computer-emergency response team.

Source type: cert
Open official website
Financial Services Agency (FSA)
Last checked 2026-06-05

Financial regulator; fraud guidance.

Source type: regulator
Open official website
Consumer Affairs Agency (Hotline 188)
Last checked 2026-06-05

Consumer hotline for fraud and scams.

Source type: government
Open official website

Report scam texts: Report scam texts to your carrier; keep evidence for the police.

If money is involved: Contact your bank immediately to stop transfers.

Police advice: Call 110 for emergencies; report cybercrime to prefectural police.

Evidence to save:

Screenshots of the message, sender, and any links (with the link removed/sanitised).
Dates, times, amounts, and any reference numbers.
The account, wallet, or contact details you were asked to use.

What not to do:

Do not use phone numbers or links from the suspicious message.
Do not pay any 'fee' to recover money or release funds.
Do not share more codes, passwords, or ID documents.

Be wary of anyone promising guaranteed recovery for an upfront fee - that is a recovery scam.

How to report in Japan

Online scams & fraud: use the fraud or consumer-protection authority above. Describe what happened and include your evidence (screenshots, dates, amounts, references).

Cybercrime (hacking, account takeover): file with the national cybercrime portal or police cyber unit listed above.

Scam texts & calls: Report scam texts to your carrier; keep evidence for the police.

Bank & payment scams: Contact your bank immediately to stop transfers.

If you sent money: contact your bank or payment provider right away, save all evidence, and report to the authority above. The faster you act, the better the chance of recovery.

If you shared ID or KYC documents: watch for identity theft, consider a credit freeze or fraud alert where available, and follow the shared-ID recovery guide.

Stay safe while reporting

Do not use phone numbers or links from the suspicious message.
Search for official authorities independently and type the address yourself.
Report quickly if money was sent or ID documents were shared.

Common scams in Japan

Bank and delivery (smishing) scams
Support-payment and refund scams
Investment and romance scams
Phishing for My Number / KYC

Not sure if a message is a scam?

Check it first to see the red flags and what to do.

Check message

Helpful next steps

Learn the red flags

Common scam types

Check & learn

Frequently asked questions

How do I report a scam in Japan?

Use the official authorities listed on this page. If money is involved, contact your bank first, then file a report with the fraud or cybercrime authority.

Can I get my money back?

Sometimes, if you act quickly through your bank. Be cautious of anyone promising guaranteed recovery for an upfront fee - that is a recovery scam.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-05. Always confirm links on the official site.

Found an outdated official link? Tell us so we can review it.