How to Report Financial Scams
If you've been targeted by fraud, reporting helps protect others and may aid recovery. Here's where and how to report.
Why Reporting Matters
Reporting fraud helps authorities track patterns, investigate organized crime, and potentially recover funds. Even if you can't recover your money, your report may prevent others from becoming victims. The more reports agencies receive, the higher priority investigations become.
Where to Report
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Primary consumer protection agency. Tracks fraud patterns nationwide.
https://reportfraud.ftc.govFBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
For internet-related fraud, including crypto scams and online investment fraud.
https://ic3.govSecurities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
For investment fraud, unregistered securities, and broker misconduct.
https://sec.gov/tcrFINRA
For complaints about brokers and brokerage firms.
https://finra.org/investors/have-problemCFTC
For commodity and forex fraud, including crypto derivatives.
https://cftc.gov/complaintState Attorney General
Your state AG handles local consumer protection and fraud.
What Information to Gather
- All communications (emails, texts, chat messages)
- Screenshots of websites, profiles, and ads
- Transaction records (bank statements, crypto wallet addresses)
- Phone numbers and contact information used
- Names, usernames, and company names mentioned
- Dates and timeline of events
- Amount of money lost and payment methods used
How Smart Money Verified Helps
Smart Money Verified provides independent analysis to help investors evaluate financial companies and avoid scams before they happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Protect Your Investments
Download our free Investor Protection Guide with actionable steps to verify companies and avoid scams.