Quick answer: Report fraud and scams in the U.S. by filing a complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or calling 1-877-382-4357. For internet crimes, use the FBI’s IC3 at ic3.gov. All reports can be filed anonymously.
How to Report Fraud: Choose Your Situation
Fraud costs Americans over $10 billion every year. The right agency depends on the type of fraud — use the guide links below to find your exact situation and the correct steps to take.
Phone & Online Scams
- How to Report Identity Theft
- How to Report an Online Scam
- How to Report a Scam Phone Number
- How to Report a Spam or Phishing Email
- How to Report a Netflix Phishing Attack
- How to Report a Romance Scam
Financial & Tax Fraud
- How to Report Someone to the IRS
- How to Report an Employer Paying Under the Table
- How to Check if a Nonprofit is Legitimate
- How to Report Insurance Fraud
- How to Report Credit Card Fraud
- How to Report Tax Fraud
- How to Report a Fake Charity
Consumer Complaints
- How to File a BBB Complaint
- How to Complain About a Car Repair Service
- How to Report an Undelivered Amazon Package
Which Agency Should I Contact for Fraud?
| Type of Fraud | Agency | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| General scams & consumer fraud | FTC | reportfraud.ftc.gov |
| Internet crimes & cyber fraud | FBI IC3 | ic3.gov |
| Tax fraud & IRS scams | IRS | 1-800-829-0433 |
| Investment & securities fraud | SEC | sec.gov/tcr |
| Phone & robocall scams | FCC | consumercomplaints.fcc.gov |
| Mail fraud | USPS Inspection Service | 1-877-876-2455 |
| Consumer financial fraud | CFPB | consumerfinance.gov/complaint |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to report fraud in the US?
The fastest way is online at reportfraud.ftc.gov — it takes under 5 minutes and is available 24/7. For urgent financial fraud, also call your bank immediately to freeze accounts.
Can I report fraud anonymously?
Yes. The FTC, FBI IC3, and IRS all accept anonymous reports. You do not need to provide your name or contact information when filing online.
What information do I need to report fraud?
Gather: the scammer’s phone number or email, dates of contact, what was said or sent, any money transferred, and screenshots or emails as evidence. The more detail you provide, the more useful your report.
What happens after I report fraud to the FTC?
The FTC adds your report to a national database used by over 3,000 law enforcement agencies. You will receive a confirmation and tips on next steps. Individual follow-up is not guaranteed but your report contributes to investigations.
How long does fraud investigation take?
Simple cases can resolve in weeks; complex fraud investigations involving multiple victims can take 1–3 years. Filing promptly improves the odds of action.
Independent resource — not affiliated with any U.S. government agency. Last reviewed: June 2026.