Reporting Fraud, Scams, and Online Crimes

If You’ve Been a Victim

1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC):

• The FTC is a vital resource for reporting various types of fraud and scams. To file a complaint with the FTC, follow these steps:
  • Visit the FTC Complaint Assistant website.
  • Provide details about the incident, including the type of fraud, the perpetrator, and any relevant evidence.
  • Your information will help the FTC track trends, investigate reported crimes, and take action against cybercriminals.

2. California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI):

• The DFPI focuses on consumer protection and financial services. If you’re a California resident, consider reporting fraud to them:
  • Visit the DFPI Consumer Complaints page.
  • Fill out the complaint form, providing as much information as possible.
  • The DFPI will review your complaint and take appropriate action.

3. Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3):

• The IC3, run by the FBI, serves as the nation’s central hub for reporting cybercrime. Reporting incidents to IC3 helps protect others and contributes to investigations:
  • Visit the IC3 website.
  • File a complaint by providing details about the online crime you’ve experienced.
  • Your information assists law enforcement in tracking cybercriminals and defending against threats.

Staying Informed

- Educate Yourself:

• Stay informed about the latest cyber threats and scams. Knowledge is your best defense.
• Regularly check the IC3 announcements and other reliable sources for updates.

- Be Proactive:

• Protect yourself, your family, and your workplace by learning how to spot and avoid scams.
• Remember that anyone can become a victim of internet crime, so take action to safeguard our digital world.

Together Against Cybercrime

- Community Effort:

• Criminals constantly target our interconnected digital systems. We must work together to defend against cyber threats.
• By reporting incidents promptly, you contribute to a safer online environment for everyone.

Common Crimes

PC 470 Forgery: The act of creating, altering, or using false documents, signatures, or seals with the intent to deceive or defraud.

PC 484 Fraud: Involves intentionally deceiving someone for financial gain, often through false representations or misrepresentations.

PC 487 Grand Theft: The unlawful taking of someone else’s property (such as money, goods, or services) valued above a specified threshold.

PC 530.5 Identity Theft: The unauthorized use of someone else’s personal identifying information (such as Social Security numbers, credit card details, etc.) to commit fraud or other crimes.

PC 530.6 Mail Theft: Stealing, opening, or tampering with someone else’s mail or packages without authorization.