Supporting a loved one who has lost money due to a scam requires patience, understanding, and practical help. The emotional impact of being scammed can be severe, often causing feelings of shame, guilt, and confusion. The first step is to listen without judgment and reassure them that anyone can fall victim to scams, as scammers are skilled at deception and manipulation.
Encourage your loved one to talk openly about what happened. This can help them process the experience and reduce feelings of isolation. Avoid blaming or criticizing, as this may cause them to withdraw. Instead, express empathy and validate their feelings.
Help them take immediate practical steps to limit further damage. This includes contacting their bank or financial institutions to report the fraud and freeze accounts if necessary. They should also change passwords and monitor their accounts closely for suspicious activity. If identity theft is involved, resources like the Identity Theft Resource Center can provide guidance and support for recovery.
Assist them in reporting the scam to appropriate authorities such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and local law enforcement. Reporting helps track scam patterns and may aid in recovery efforts. The FTC’s website offers a straightforward way to submit complaints and find resources for victims.
If your loved one is an older adult, be especially vigilant. Scammers often target seniors, exploiting their trust and sometimes their social media use. Staying connected regularly and educating them about common scams can help prevent future incidents.
Encourage seeking professional help if the emotional toll is significant. Counseling or support groups for scam victims can provide a safe space to heal and regain confidence.
Finally, help your loved one learn from the experience by educating them about common scams and how to recognize warning signs. This knowledge can empower them to protect themselves and others in the future.
Sources
https://www.usa.gov/crime-victim-support
https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/fraud/
https://www.help4seniors.org/uncategorized/protect-yourself-from-being-a-victim-of-fraud-or-scams/
https://www.legalshield.com/blog/how-to-help-get-your-money-back-from-a-scam
https://www.idtheftcenter.org
https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/contact
