Law enforcement is taking fraud and ransomware seriously; whether by mail, phone or digital communications. If you receive items in the mail, take them to your local police station. They may address directly or direct you to other action.
In the case of calls, text messages, email and website scams, reporting to your mobile carrier and the FBI is the best recourse. Below are some links that may change as websites and services are updated.
Note that legitimate government sites end with a .gov extension and will have a / before any following text. (e.g. .gov/)
Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) The site has an easy to see link to report a complaint as well as a number of other useful links.
Homeland Security: Cybersecurity Also has a number of links to useful information.
US Secret Service for financial crimes
Remember that scams are always advancing and that it is best to be wary of anything you think suspicious. Once you detect possible fraud, it is best to cease engagement:
- Do not reply to messages.
- Stop talking if on a call—just hang up.
- Never let an unknown person have access to any of your devices in person or by remote control. If you have unwittingly done so, have a professional advise on recourse.
