Help Someone Who's Being Scammed
You can play a crucial role in protecting those you care about—even when it’s difficult. The earlier a scam is detected, the greater the chance of stopping financial and emotional damage.
Key Insight:
The victim may not recognize the scam—or may be unwilling to admit it. Your calm, consistent support is often more effective than confrontation.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Ongoing contact with someone they’ve never met in person
- Pressure to send money, share personal info, or act urgently
- Requests to switch to encrypted platforms (like WhatsApp or Telegram)
- Sudden withdrawal, secrecy, or anxiety
- Unusual financial activity (if you're a caregiver or have access)
Key Insight:
Behavioral changes are often the first red flag. Isolation, secrecy, or financial withdrawal may signal grooming or active scam engagement.
Grooming Techniques Used by Scammers
- Build emotional trust—posing as a friend, romantic partner, or advisor
- Start with small, easy requests to normalize giving
- Encourage secrecy and isolation from loved ones
- Use sympathy or urgency to override logical thinking
- Often followed by “money recovery” scams after initial losses
How to Confirm It's a Scam
- Search the scammer’s name, email, or company online
- Run a reverse image search on profile pictures
- Check with financial regulators or anti-scam databases
- Use scam reporting tools or community forums (like Scamwatch, BBB, FTC)
- Share findings gently—then give them time to process
Key Insight:
People must often see the evidence for themselves. Present facts without pressure, and let them reach the conclusion at their own pace.
What Else to Watch For
- Fake investment platforms or dashboards showing “earnings”
- Conflicting stories or sudden rule changes from the scammer
- New contacts claiming to “help recover” lost money
- Reluctance to show you full messages, platforms, or transaction history
If you're concerned, document what you observe and consider reporting it to the appropriate agency or elder abuse hotline (if applicable).
Key Insight:
You don’t have to solve it alone. Trusted professionals, fraud investigators, or adult protective services can offer guidance and support.
