1. I got scammed recently. Is it useful to report to the police?
Answer: Yes, you should always file a police report.
Documentation
Print or save copies of any bank account information (including transaction receipts) and all relevant chat histories or emails.
Why Reporting Matters?
Even if the chances of recovering your funds seem slim, lodging a police report is critical. Police need as many details as possible to connect cases and locate victims. Without your testimony or documentation, they may lack enough evidence to keep scammers in custody.
Possibility of Recovery
While many online scam cases are difficult to solve, there are instances where victims do get their money back—especially if the operation is eventually taken down. You have no other official channel to pursue restitution, so reporting is always in your best interest.
2. I have the scammer’s phone number, account number, Alipay, IP address, and voice recordings. Why can’t the police catch them?
Answer:
Fake Identities
Scammers often use illegally purchased phone numbers, stolen profile photos, and fabricated personal details. It is common for them to claim a false nationality or location.
Complex Money-Laundering Networks
The bank accounts you provide to the police often belong to “money mules,” who might be entirely unaware of the main scam organization. These individuals (sometimes called “runners”) are paid to move money from one account to another, making the trail incredibly difficult to trace.
Layered Operations
Even if law enforcement locates the account holders, these individuals are often money mules who know nothing about the larger criminal network.
3. Weeks or months have passed, and there is still no news. What should I do?
Answer:
Long Investigations
It is normal for investigations to take a long time—months or even years—due to the complexity of tracking money trails and verifying information.
Patience is Key
International scams, in particular, require collaboration across multiple jurisdictions. Avoid repeatedly calling or messaging your investigation officer; remember that they handle multiple cases simultaneously.
4. How many scam victims actually recover their money?
Answer:
Slim Chances, But Stay Hopeful
If the police successfully dismantle the operation, bring the suspects to justice, and recover stolen funds, there is a chance you could get your money back. Although this outcome is rare, partial recoveries do happen. Some victims have received some of their losses back after a couple of years.
5. Are there any other ways to recover my money besides going through the police?
Answer: Yes!
For Wire transfers
You can try to sue the money mule account through civil law.
For crytocurrency transfers
Hire a tracing company to trace where your funds landed up to than sue that person who cashed out your money.
6. I have already lodged a police report against the suspect. Why is their phone number or website still active?
Answer:
Telecommunications Limitations
The police often have no authority over international telecom providers. Phone numbers may be acquired in a foreign country solely for use on WhatsApp or other messaging apps, meaning the scammer may never even own a physical SIM card.
Website Shutdowns
Depending on the country, authorities may block or restrict fraudulent websites at a national level. You might see notices stating the site is inaccessible due to violating public interest or security laws.
Bank Account Freezes
In many places, authorities can freeze bank accounts used for money laundering while they investigate. If you transferred money to a foreign-based account, you should also file a report with the police in that country (often via their online portal).
7. How long might I wait for a police update?
Answer: There’s no set timeline. It could be anywhere from six months to two years or more, especially if the suspect is based abroad. In some cases, you may never receive additional updates.
8. I obtained the scammer’s IP address. Why aren’t the police doing anything?
Answer:
Use of VPNs and Fake IPs
Scammers often mask their real location using VPNs or proxy services. The IP address you found may be entirely fabricated or belong to another unsuspecting individual.
Criminal Strongholds
Research indicates that many scam networks operate out of regions like Laos, Cambodia (Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville), Myanmar, the Philippines, Dubai, Malaysia, and China. These groups often have armed security, local contacts to warn them of raids, and may exploit political or legal issues in the area to evade capture.
Final Encouragement
Return to Normal
Try to rebuild your life and finances as best you can. Dwelling on the scam too long can take a toll on your mental health.
Stay Vigilant, Support Others
If you want to help prevent more victims from falling prey to scams, consider collaborating with advocacy groups or leaving a message on relevant “Contact Us” pages.
Still Have More Questions?
See “FAQ, Part 2” for additional information.
Remember: The most important steps after being scammed are to report it to the police, gather evidence, and protect yourself from further exploitation.
