Agencies to Report Internet Scams
Here’s a breakdown of the primary agencies dedicated to handling internet scams in the US:
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
The IC3 is the central hub for reporting internet scams. They analyze reports to identify patterns and trends and work with law enforcement agencies globally to pursue cases. You can file a complaint with the IC3 online at https://www.ic3.gov/.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
The FTC protects consumers from unfair and deceptive business practices, including many internet scams. You can report internet scams to the FTC through their online portal ReportFraud.ftc.gov (https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Data collected by the FTC aids in broader investigations into fraudulent activities.
Your Local FBI Field Office
In cases of significant financial loss, network intrusion, data breach, or ransomware attacks, it’s advisable to contact your nearest FBI field office directly. You can find a list of field offices on the FBI website (https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/cyber).
Where to Report Internet Scams in US ?
Internet scams are a pervasive problem, costing Americans billions of dollars each year. These scams come in many forms, including phishing emails, fraudulent websites, romance scams, and investment fraud. If you’ve fallen victim to an internet scam, it’s essential to report it to the appropriate authorities to increase your chances of recovering lost funds and aid law enforcement in stopping the perpetrators.