What to do after paying a scam seller
Act quickly, but avoid anyone promising guaranteed recovery for another advance fee. Recovery depends on the payment method, provider rules, timing and local law.
Reviewed by BeforeYouPay · Updated 2026-09-06
Create a private step-by-step complaint draft for your payment method and country.
Prepare a recovery guide →
Contact the payment provider immediately
Use the official app, website or number on your card. Explain that you were deceived, ask whether the transfer can be stopped or reversed and record the case reference.
Preserve evidence before it disappears
Save the original listing, website address, seller identifiers, messages, payment receipt, transaction ID and delivery promises. Keep unedited originals privately.
Protect accounts and devices
If you shared a password, OTP, card detail or remote access, change affected credentials, enable multi-factor authentication and contact the relevant provider.
Report through the appropriate channels
Report the seller to the marketplace or social platform and to the relevant payment provider or local authority. A report does not guarantee recovery but may support investigation.
Watch for recovery scams
A second scammer may claim to be an investigator, bank employee or hacker who can recover the money for a fee. Verify every contact independently.
Official safety resources
Quick checklist
- Call the provider now
- Ask about reversal options
- Save all original evidence
- Change exposed credentials
- Record every case number
- Do not pay a recovery fee