Recovery scam
Quick answer
A follow-up scam that targets people who already lost money by promising to recover it for an upfront fee.
- Do not pay any upfront fee. Report only through official authorities, which never charge private recovery fees.
What it is
A follow-up scam that targets people who already lost money by promising to recover it for an upfront fee.
How it works
After a loss, a 'recovery agent', 'fund recovery service', or 'crypto tracer' contacts the victim and promises to retrieve funds, charging an investigation, legal, or recovery fee that is also stolen.
Red flags to watch for
- Unsolicited offers to recover lost money or crypto
- An upfront recovery, investigation, or legal fee
- Claims of special access to banks, police, or blockchains
- Pressure to act before funds 'disappear'
What not to do
- Do not act under time pressure
- Do not share codes, passwords, or card details
- Do not click links or pay fees from the message
The safe next step
Do not pay any upfront fee. Report only through official authorities, which never charge private recovery fees.
Often seen on: SMS, Email, WhatsApp, Social media.
Commonly targets: People who recently lost money to a scam, Crypto investment victims.
How to verify safely
- Do not use links, phone numbers, QR codes, or email addresses from the suspicious message.
- Open the official app or website yourself - type the address manually.
- Call a contact you have saved, or the number printed on your bank card.
- If you are threatened or in immediate danger, contact local emergency services or police.
How to report it
Report to your country's fraud or cybercrime authority; see the reporting directory for official links.
Find official links for your country in the scam reporting directory.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a recovery scam?
A follow-up scam that targets people who already lost money by promising to recover it for an upfront fee.
How can I avoid a recovery scam?
Do not pay any upfront fee. Report only through official authorities, which never charge private recovery fees.
What should I do if I have already been affected?
Contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any exposed passwords from a trusted device, and save evidence. See our recovery guides, and be wary of recovery scams that promise to get your money back for a fee.