Emergency Response Guide
Step-by-step actions to take when you've been scammed or lost important documents
Immediate Action Steps
Don't panic. Follow these steps systematically to minimize damage and protect yourself.
Immediate Actions (First 24 Hours)
1. Stop All Communication
Immediately cease all contact with the scammer. Do not respond to further messages, calls, or emails.
2. Secure Your Accounts
Change passwords for all affected accounts immediately. Enable two-factor authentication if not already active.
3. Contact Financial Institutions
Call your bank and credit card companies immediately. Report the fraud and freeze accounts if necessary.
4. File a Police Report
Contact local law enforcement to file a report. This creates an official record for recovery efforts.
Follow-Up Actions
5. Report to Authorities
- FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- FBI IC3: ic3.gov (for internet crimes)
- Attorney General: Contact your state's office.
6. Place Fraud Alerts
Contact Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion to place fraud alerts on your credit reports.
7. Monitor Accounts
Check financial statements and online account activity daily for several weeks.
Immediate Steps
1. Report Loss/Theft
File a police report immediately. This is often required by agencies to issue replacements.
2. Contact Issuing Agencies
Notify the DMV, State Department, or SSA immediately to cancel the old document.
Replacement Process
Emergency
911 - Immediate Danger
Police Non-Emergency: Check local listings.
Fraud Reporting
FTC: 1-877-FTC-HELP
FBI: ic3.gov
Credit Bureaus
Equifax: 1-800-685-1111
Experian: 1-888-397-3742
Quick Reference Checklist
Scam Response
- Stop communication
- Secure accounts (New Passwords)
- Contact Bank / Freeze Cards
- File Police Report
Document Loss
- Report to Issuing Agency
- Place Fraud Alert
- Monitor Credit Report
- Order Replacements