Why Reporting Fraud to the FTC and FBI Protects You and Others

Fraud and identity theft remain persistent threats in today’s digital landscape. While many victims focus on recovering lost money or personal information, reporting fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) is equally important, even if no direct financial loss occurred.

Only 38% of fraud reports received by the FTC in 2024 involved monetary losses, highlighting that many scams do not immediately result in financial harm but still require attention. Reporting these incidents helps authorities identify emerging scams and protect the public.

When you report fraud, you contribute valuable data that the FTC and IC3 use to analyze trends, update the public, and assist law enforcement in building cases against criminals. Recent scams tracked include toll road scams, fake USPS texts, and impersonation of government agencies.

The FTC’s Consumer Sentinel database and IC3’s complaint system are accessible to thousands of law enforcement partners nationwide, enabling coordinated efforts to catch cybercriminals. Although you may not receive direct feedback after filing a report, your submission plays a critical role in protecting others.

How to Report Fraud

You can report fraud to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and cybercrimes to the FBI’s IC3 at ic3.gov. For identity theft specifically, visit identitytheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338 for recovery steps tailored to your situation.

Victims should also consider identity theft protection services that offer white-glove restoration to handle the complex recovery process efficiently.

Recovering Lost Funds and Protecting Yourself

Unauthorized credit or debit card charges can often be reversed by contacting your bank promptly. However, money sent directly to scammers or via cryptocurrency is usually unrecoverable. Immediate action is critical to minimize losses.

Basic security measures such as changing passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and removing saved payment information from websites help prevent further fraud. Stay vigilant against follow-up scams where fraudsters impersonate recovery services.

By reporting fraud and following recommended precautions, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to a safer digital environment for everyone.