How to Report a Romance Scammer

Quick Answer: To report a romance scammer, file reports with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the dating platform where you met them, your local police (if money was involved), and your bank or payment service immediately. Reporting helps law enforcement track scammers, protects other potential victims, and creates documentation if you need to dispute financial losses.

You've discovered you were scammed. The person you trusted, the relationship you believed in—it was all a lie. Now you're facing a choice: do you report what happened, or do you try to move on quietly?

This moment feels heavy. Reporting means acknowledging what happened. It means facing the embarrassment, the shame, the frustration of having been deceived. It might feel easier to just walk away and pretend it never happened.

But here's what you need to know: reporting a romance scammer isn't just about you. It's about protecting the next person. And it's about giving yourself the best possible chance of recovery—financially, emotionally, and legally.

This guide will walk you through exactly how to report a romance scammer, step by step, across every platform that matters. You'll learn where to report, what information to gather, what to expect after reporting, and how to maximize your chances of getting justice or financial recovery.

You didn't ask to be in this position. But now that you're here, taking action is one of the most empowering things you can do.

Why Reporting Romance Scammers Actually Matters

Before we get into the how, let's address the why. Many people skip reporting because they think it won't make a difference. Here's why it absolutely does.

Reason #1: You Help Law Enforcement Track Patterns

Romance scammers rarely work alone. Many are part of organized crime networks operating across multiple countries. When you report a romance scammer to the FBI or FTC, your report becomes part of a larger database that helps law enforcement:

• Identify scam networks operating across multiple victims

• Track money flows and identify how funds are being moved

• Build cases against organized fraud operations

• Recognize patterns in how scammers operate

• Allocate resources to shut down major operations

Your single report might seem small, but when combined with hundreds or thousands of others, it creates a clear picture that helps authorities take action.

Reason #2: You Protect Future Victims

Every time you report a romance scammer, you're creating a trail that can help protect others:

• Dating platforms can remove fake profiles faster

• Banks can flag suspicious accounts

• Payment services can identify fraudulent transactions

• Other potential victims might search the scammer's information and find your report

• Awareness increases about specific tactics being used

The person who scammed you is almost certainly targeting other people right now. Your report could be what saves someone else from the same pain.

Reason #3: You Create Legal Documentation

If you sent money, reporting creates an official record that can help you:

• Dispute transactions with your bank or credit card

• File insurance claims if applicable

• Document losses for tax purposes (in some cases, fraud losses may be deductible)

• Pursue legal action if the scammer is ever identified and prosecuted

• Protect your credit if identity theft becomes an issue

Without an official report, recovering money or proving what happened becomes significantly harder.

Reason #4: You Take Back Your Power

Being scammed makes you feel powerless. Someone took advantage of your trust and exploited your vulnerability. Reporting is one way to reclaim agency in the situation.

Reporting says:

• "I'm not going to stay silent"

• "I'm going to do what I can to stop this person"

• "I refuse to let shame keep me from protecting others"

• "I'm taking action, not just accepting this"

This psychological shift—from victim to advocate—is actually part of healing. Many people report feeling more empowered after filing reports, even if they never see direct results.

Before You Report: Information to Gather

The more documentation you have, the more effective your reports will be. Before you start filing, gather the following information. Don't worry if you don't have everything—report anyway. But collect what you can.

Essential Information to Collect

About the scammer:

• ✓ Full name they used (and any variations)

• ✓ Dating profile username and URL

• ✓ Phone numbers they used

• ✓ Email addresses they used

• ✓ Social media profiles (even if fake)

• ✓ Photos they sent you

• ✓ Physical addresses they claimed (even if fake)

• ✓ Details about their claimed identity (job, location, military service, etc.)

About the financial transactions:

• ✓ Dates money was sent

• ✓ Amounts sent

• ✓ Method used (wire transfer, gift cards, cryptocurrency, check, etc.)

• ✓ Account numbers or wallet addresses where money was sent

• ✓ Names on receiving accounts

• ✓ Payment service used (Western Union, MoneyGram, PayPal, Venmo, etc.)

• ✓ Receipts or confirmation numbers

Communication records:

• ✓ Screenshots of conversations (dating app, text, email)

• ✓ Screenshots showing requests for money

• ✓ Voice recordings if you have them (check local laws first)

• ✓ Timeline of the relationship (when you met, major events)

• ✓ Any promises they made about meeting or the future

How to Organize Your Documentation

Create a folder (digital or physical) with everything organized:

Folder structure:

Pro tip: Take screenshots of everything before the scammer deletes their profile or blocks you. Once they're gone, you lose access to that evidence.

Step-by-Step: Where and How to Report Romance Scammers

Now let's get into the actual reporting process. You should file reports in multiple places—each serves a different purpose and increases the chances of action being taken.

Report #1: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) — MOST IMPORTANT

Why this matters: The FBI's IC3 is the primary federal agency tracking online fraud, including romance scams. Your report goes into a national database used to identify patterns and build cases.

Who should report here: Everyone who was scammed online, especially if money was involved.

Step-by-step process:

1. Go to IC3.gov

2. Click "File a Complaint"

3. Create an account or file as a guest (account recommended for tracking)

4. Fill out the complaint form with:

   • Your personal information (name, address, contact)

   • Scammer's information (everything you gathered)

   • Detailed description of what happened

   • Financial loss information

   • Supporting documentation (upload screenshots, receipts)

5. Submit the report

6. Save your complaint number for your records

What to include in your description:

Be detailed and chronological. Example:

"I met [Name] on [Dating Platform] on [Date]. They claimed to be [claimed identity]. Over [timeframe], we developed a relationship through [communication methods]. On [date], they requested money for [reason given]. I sent $[amount] via [method]. They continued requesting money on [dates] for [reasons], totaling $[total amount]. I discovered the scam when [how you found out]. I have attached screenshots of conversations and financial transactions."

What happens after you report:

• You'll receive a complaint number immediately

• The FBI reviews all reports but won't contact you unless they need more information

• If your case is part of a larger investigation, they may reach out

• You likely won't hear back unless there's significant action (this is normal)

Timeline: Report filed immediately; FBI review happens within days to weeks; investigation (if any) can take months to years.

Report #2: Federal Trade Commission (FTC) — CONSUMER PROTECTION

Why this matters: The FTC tracks consumer fraud and provides data to help prevent future scams. They also coordinate with other agencies and can take action against scam operations.

Who should report here: Everyone who experienced romance fraud, even if no money was lost.

Step-by-step process:

1. Go to ReportFraud.FTC.gov

2. Select "Romance Scam" or "Online Shopping and Negative Reviews" (if romance scam isn't listed)

3. Answer the questions about what happened:

   • How you met the scammer

   • What they promised or claimed

   • What you lost (money, personal information)

   • How you paid (if applicable)

4. Provide scammer details (name, contact information, dating profile)

5. Upload supporting documents if available

6. Submit your report

7. Print or save your reference number

What to emphasize:

• The method of contact (dating app, social media)

• The tactics used (love bombing, urgency, crisis stories)

• The payment method requested (wire transfer, gift cards, cryptocurrency)

• Whether your personal information was compromised

What happens after you report:

• Your report is added to the FTC's Consumer Sentinel Network

• Data is shared with law enforcement agencies

• You receive a reference number for your records

• The FTC may contact you if they need clarification

• You'll get information about next steps and resources

Timeline: Report filed immediately; added to database within 24 hours; no direct follow-up expected unless part of a major case.

Report #3: The Dating Platform or Social Media Site — REMOVE THE PROFILE

Why this matters: Dating platforms and social media sites can remove the scammer's profile, preventing them from targeting more people on that platform.

Who should report here: Everyone who met the scammer on a dating app, social media platform, or website.

How to report on major platforms:

Dating Apps:

Tinder:

1. Open the scammer's profile or conversation

2. Tap the shield icon or three dots

3. Select "Report [Name]"

4. Choose "Scam" or "Suspicious Behavior"

5. Provide details

6. Submit

Bumble:

1. Go to the conversation or profile

2. Tap the three dots

3. Select "Block & Report"

4. Choose "Scam" as the reason

5. Add details and submit

Match.com:

1. Go to their profile

2. Click "Report this member"

3. Select "Suspected scammer"

4. Provide details

5. Submit report

Hinge:

1. Open the conversation

2. Tap the three dots

3. Select "Report"

4. Choose "Scam or fraud"

5. Provide details

eHarmony:

1. Go to their profile

2. Click "Report this member"

3. Select reason (fraud/scam)

4. Submit with details

Social Media:

Facebook:

1. Go to the profile

2. Click the three dots

3. Select "Find support or report profile"

4. Choose "Scam or fraud"

5. Follow prompts to submit

Instagram:

1. Go to the profile

2. Tap the three dots

3. Select "Report"

4. Choose "It's a scam"

5. Provide details

What to include in platform reports:

• Screenshots of requests for money

• Evidence of fake identity (if you have it)

• Description of the scam tactics used

• Any evidence of multiple fake profiles

What happens after you report:

• Platform reviews within 24-48 hours

• Profile may be removed or suspended

• You'll receive confirmation of action taken (or not)

• The scammer may create new profiles (report those too)

Important: Platforms don't share user information with you for privacy reasons, so you won't learn the scammer's real identity through this process.

Report #4: Local Police Department — CREATE LEGAL DOCUMENTATION

Why this matters: A police report creates official legal documentation of the crime. This is especially important if you sent money or if your identity was compromised.

Who should report here: Anyone who lost money, had identity information stolen, or wants official legal documentation.

Step-by-step process:

1. Contact your local police department's non-emergency number

2. Ask to file a report for online fraud or romance scam

3. Bring your documentation (printed or on your phone):

   • Scammer information

   • Financial records

   • Communication screenshots

   • Timeline of events

4. File the report in person or online (some departments allow online reporting)

5. Get a copy of the police report with case number

6. Ask how to follow up if you have additional information

What to tell the police:

Be clear and factual:

• "I was the victim of an online romance scam"

• "I met someone on [platform] who claimed to be [identity]"

• "I sent $[amount] on [dates] via [method]"

• "I discovered it was a scam when [what happened]"

• "I'm filing this report for documentation purposes and to help with potential recovery efforts"

What happens after you report:

• You receive a case number and report

• The detective may or may not follow up (depends on jurisdiction and amount)

• You can use the report for bank disputes and insurance claims

• The report becomes part of public record

• If the scammer is ever caught, your report can be evidence

Important reality check: Local police often have limited resources for investigating online fraud, especially when scammers are overseas. Many won't actively investigate unless the amount is very large or part of a bigger pattern. This doesn't mean reporting isn't valuable—the documentation itself is crucial for other steps.

Report #5: Your Bank or Payment Service — TRY TO RECOVER MONEY

Why this matters: If you sent money, immediate reporting to your bank or payment service gives you the best chance of recovering funds or disputing transactions.

Who should report here: Anyone who sent money via bank transfer, credit card, debit card, or payment apps.

How to report by payment method:

Bank Wire Transfer:

1. Call your bank immediately (the sooner, the better)

2. Report the transaction as fraudulent

3. Request a wire recall (only works if money hasn't been withdrawn yet)

4. File a fraud claim with your bank

5. Provide documentation: police report, scammer info, evidence it was fraud

6. Follow up in writing via email or letter

Timeline: Wire recalls must be initiated within 24 hours for best chance of success. After money is withdrawn, recovery is nearly impossible.

Credit Card:

1. Call your credit card company's fraud department

2. Dispute the charges as fraudulent

3. Explain the situation: you were deceived into making payments

4. Provide evidence: screenshots, police report, scammer information

5. Follow dispute process (usually 30-60 days for investigation)

Timeline: Credit card disputes have better success rates. Companies can reverse charges if you report quickly.

Payment Apps (Venmo, PayPal, Cash App, Zelle):

PayPal:

1. Go to Resolution Center

2. Report a Problem

3. Select the transaction

4. Choose "I was scammed"

5. Provide evidence

6. Submit claim

Venmo:

1. Contact Venmo support

2. Report the transaction as unauthorized or fraudulent

3. Provide details

4. Note: Venmo offers limited protection for fraud

Cash App:

1. Go to transaction history

2. Select the payment

3. Report as fraud

4. Contact support

5. Note: Very limited fraud protection

Zelle:

1. Contact your bank (Zelle operates through banks)

2. Report fraud

3. Note: Zelle offers almost no fraud protection for authorized payments

Gift Cards (iTunes, Google Play, Amazon, etc.):

1. Contact the gift card company immediately

2. Report the card numbers as used in a scam

3. Provide proof of purchase and fraud

4. Request reversal or freeze (rarely successful, but worth trying)

5. Report to the FTC (gift card scams are tracked separately)

Reality check: Gift card scammers specifically use this method because it's nearly impossible to recover. Gift card companies rarely refund once codes are redeemed.

Cryptocurrency:

1. Report to the cryptocurrency exchange you used

2. Provide transaction details (wallet address, amount, date)

3. File complaints with FTC and IC3

4. Contact a cryptocurrency recovery service (if amount is large enough)

Reality check: Cryptocurrency transactions are designed to be irreversible. Recovery is extremely rare unless the funds haven't been moved yet.

What increases your chances of recovery:

✓ Report within 24-48 hours ✓ Have documentation ready ✓ File police report first ✓ Be persistent with follow-ups ✓ Escalate to supervisors if initial claims are denied ✓ Reference consumer protection laws

Report #6: State Attorney General's Office — CONSUMER PROTECTION

Why this matters: State attorneys general handle consumer fraud and can take action against scam operations, especially those operating within your state.

Who should report here: Anyone who experienced significant financial loss or wants additional consumer protection support.

How to report:

1. Find your state's Attorney General website (search "[Your State] Attorney General consumer complaint")

2. Locate the consumer protection division

3. File an online complaint (most states have online forms)

4. Provide all documentation:

   • Scammer information

   • Financial losses

   • Communication records

   • Other reports filed (FBI, FTC, police)

5. Submit and save confirmation

What happens after you report:

• Your complaint is reviewed by consumer protection staff

• If part of a pattern, they may investigate

• Some AG offices provide mediation services

• You receive a case number for tracking

• Updates provided if action is taken

Report #7: Internet Crime Reporting Sites — COMMUNITY WARNING

Why this matters: These sites allow victims to share stories and warn others. While not official law enforcement, they help potential victims find information about specific scammers.

Where to report:

RomanceScams.org

• Community forum where victims share stories

• Search scammer names and photos

• Post your experience to warn others

ScamDigger.com

• Database of reported scammers

• Upload scammer photos and information

• Search to see if others reported the same person

419Eater.com

• Focused on advance-fee fraud (common in romance scams)

• Community of scam-baiters and victim support

• Educational resources

SocialCatfish.com

• Reverse image search for dating profiles

• Report fake profiles

• Verify identities

How to use these effectively:

• Search the scammer's information before reporting (see if others were targeted)

• Upload photos for reverse image search

• Share your story to warn others

• Be factual, not emotional (keeps information credible)

• Don't include personal identifying information about yourself

Special Circumstances: Additional Reporting Scenarios

If You're a Victim of Military Romance Scam

In addition to all the standard reports, also report to:

U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command

• Website: www.cid.army.mil

• Report fake military profiles

• Provides verification of real military members

• Investigates military impersonation

Military branch-specific fraud hotlines:

• Each branch has fraud reporting

• They track impersonation of service members

• Can take action against fake military profiles

If Your Identity Was Stolen or Compromised

If the scammer has your Social Security number, passport information, or other sensitive data:

1. File an identity theft report with IdentityTheft.gov

2. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports (contact one bureau, they notify others)

3. Consider a credit freeze (prevents new accounts from being opened)

4. Monitor your credit reports closely for 12+ months

5. Report to local police specifically as identity theft

6. Keep documentation of all steps taken

If You're International

If you're outside the U.S.:

• Interpol: Some countries allow reporting through Interpol for international fraud

• Local law enforcement: File in your home country

• National consumer protection agencies: Most countries have equivalent to FTC

• Dating platform: Still report on the platform regardless of location

• IC3: The FBI IC3 accepts reports from international victims if U.S. entities are involved

If You're Underage

If you're under 18 and were targeted by a romance scammer:

1. Tell a trusted adult immediately (parent, guardian, school counselor)

2. Report to National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (if sexual content was involved): CyberTipline.org

3. Report to local police (minors receive additional protections)

4. Report to the platform where you were contacted

5. Save all evidence but don't engage further

What Happens After You Report: Setting Realistic Expectations

One of the hardest parts of reporting a romance scammer is understanding what to expect afterward. Let's be honest about the likely outcomes.

What Will Probably Happen

Reality #1: You likely won't hear back from law enforcement

The FBI, FTC, and police receive thousands of romance scam reports. Unless your case is part of a larger investigation or involves an unusually large amount of money, you probably won't receive individual follow-up. This doesn't mean your report wasn't valuable—it was added to databases that help identify patterns.

Reality #2: You probably won't get your money back

Romance scammers often operate from overseas, move money quickly through multiple accounts, and use methods designed to be irreversible (gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers). Recovery rates are very low, typically under 5%. However, reporting quickly improves your odds, especially with credit card disputes.

Reality #3: The scammer probably won't be caught

Most romance scammers operate from countries with limited law enforcement cooperation. They use fake identities, burner phones, and VPNs. Individual scammers are rarely prosecuted. However, when larger networks are identified through multiple reports, coordinated takedowns do happen.

Reality #4: The platform will remove the profile (eventually)

Dating platforms do take down reported profiles, but it often takes 24-48 hours. Meanwhile, the scammer may have already moved to other platforms or created new profiles. Continue reporting any new profiles you discover.

What Might Happen (Less Common, But Possible)

Possibility #1: You might be contacted by investigators

If your scammer is part of a larger operation being investigated, law enforcement may reach out for additional information or testimony. Cooperate fully if this happens—your contribution could help shut down a scam network.

Possibility #2: You might recover funds through your bank

Credit card chargebacks and bank fraud disputes have higher success rates than other methods. If you reported quickly and provided strong evidence, you might get partial or full reimbursement.

Possibility #3: Your report might prevent others from being scammed

When dating platforms remove profiles quickly, when banks flag suspicious accounts, when law enforcement identifies patterns—your report contributes to all of this. You may never know whose life you changed by reporting.

The Value of Reporting Even Without Immediate Results

Even if nothing dramatic happens after you report, you've accomplished something important:

✓ You took action instead of staying silent

✓ You created documentation that protects you legally and financially

✓ You contributed to data that helps law enforcement

✓ You potentially protected future victims

✓ You reclaimed agency in a situation where you felt powerless

How Long Does the Reporting Process Take?

Here's a realistic timeline:

Immediate (Day 1):

• IC3 report: 20-30 minutes

• FTC report: 15-20 minutes

• Platform reports: 5-10 minutes each

• Bank/payment service calls: 30-60 minutes

Within 24-48 Hours:

• Police report: 1-2 hours (includes travel time)

• State AG report: 15-20 minutes

Within a Week:

• Follow-up with bank fraud claims

• File additional reports if you discover more information

• Organize documentation for potential disputes

Total time investment: 3-5 hours spread over a few days

Worth noting: You don't have to do everything in one day. Start with IC3 and your bank (those are time-sensitive), then complete others as you have time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Reporting

Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to Report

Why it's a problem: The sooner you report, especially to banks, the better your chances of recovery. Scammers move money quickly.

What to do instead: Report to your bank within 24 hours if money was involved. File other reports within a week.

Mistake #2: Not Providing Enough Documentation

Why it's a problem: Vague reports are harder for authorities to act on. Detailed reports with evidence are more valuable.

What to do instead: Gather screenshots, receipts, and timelines before you start reporting. Include as much detail as possible.

Mistake #3: Only Reporting to One Place

Why it's a problem: Different agencies serve different purposes. Filing only with the FBI but not your bank means you miss recovery opportunities. Filing only with the platform but not law enforcement means no legal documentation.

What to do instead: Report to all relevant agencies and institutions. Each serves a different purpose in protecting you and others.

Mistake #4: Expecting Immediate Results

Why it's a problem: Setting unrealistic expectations leads to frustration and feeling like reporting was pointless.

What to do instead: Understand that reporting is about documentation, pattern recognition, and future protection—not necessarily immediate justice or recovery.

Mistake #5: Continuing to Communicate With the Scammer

Why it's a problem: Some victims continue talking to the scammer while reporting, hoping to get more information or closure. This can compromise investigations and keep you emotionally attached.

What to do instead: Block the scammer immediately after gathering your documentation. No more contact.

Mistake #6: Not Following Up

Why it's a problem: Banks and payment services often require multiple follow-ups on fraud claims. One call isn't enough.

What to do instead: Mark your calendar to follow up weekly on pending claims. Keep detailed notes of who you spoke with and what was said.

Protecting Yourself Going Forward

After reporting, take these additional steps to protect yourself:

Immediate Protection Steps

Change your passwords — Especially if the scammer had any access to your accounts

Enable two-factor authentication — On all important accounts (email, banking, social media)

Monitor your credit — Sign up for free credit monitoring (Credit Karma, AnnualCreditReport.com)

Check for new accounts — Review credit reports for accounts you didn't open

Update security questions — If the scammer knows personal information about you

Review privacy settings — On social media and dating profiles

Long-Term Protection

Be more cautious online — Use verification techniques before trusting someone new

Trust your instincts — If something feels off, investigate before investing emotionally

Slow down emotional connections — Real relationships don't require urgent trust

Never send money to someone you haven't met — No exceptions, no matter how good the reason sounds

Video chat early and often — Real people can and will video chat

Tell friends about new relationships — External perspective helps catch red flags

When Reporting Feels Too Hard: It's Okay to Get Help

If you're struggling with the reporting process, know that you don't have to do it alone.

Resources that can help:

AARP Fraud Watch Network (for all ages, despite the name)

• Helpline: 1-877-908-3360

• Free support for fraud victims

• Can help guide you through reporting

National Elder Fraud Hotline (if you're over 60)

• Phone: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311)

• Case managers who help with reporting

Local victim advocate services

• Many police departments have victim advocates

• They can help with paperwork and reporting

• Free service

Friends or family

• Ask someone you trust to sit with you during calls

• They can help organize documentation

• Support matters during this process

If You're Overwhelmed

It's okay to:

• Take breaks between filing reports

• Ask for help from someone you trust

• Focus on the most important reports first (IC3, bank, police)

• Come back to other reports when you have energy

You're not required to do everything perfectly. Even partial reporting is better than no reporting.

Your Reporting Checklist: What to Do This Week

Use this checklist to track your reporting progress:

Priority 1 (Do Today If Money Was Involved):

• Contact your bank/credit card company

• Request wire recall or dispute charges

• File fraud claim with payment service

• Document all conversations

Priority 2 (Do This Week):

• File IC3 report at IC3.gov

• File FTC report at ReportFraud.FTC.gov

• Report to dating platform where you met

• File police report (in person or online)

• Save all confirmation numbers

Priority 3 (Do Within Two Weeks):

• File state Attorney General report

• Report to community sites (RomanceScams.org, etc.)

• If military scam: Report to CID

• If identity theft: File at IdentityTheft.gov

• Follow up on bank fraud claims

Ongoing:

• Monitor credit reports monthly

• Follow up on fraud claims weekly

• Document any new contact from scammer

• Keep all documentation organized

Moving Beyond Reporting: What Comes Next

Reporting is a crucial step, but it's just one part of your recovery. After you've filed your reports, you'll need support for the emotional healing, rebuilding trust, and moving forward.

The Bigger Picture

You've done something important by reporting. You've:

• Taken back control

• Protected others

• Created legal documentation

• Stood up against fraud

Now it's time to focus on your own recovery and protection going forward.

Common Questions After Reporting

"How long until I hear back?" Most agencies won't provide individual updates unless they need more information. This is normal and doesn't mean your report wasn't valuable.

"Will I get my money back?" Unfortunately, recovery rates are low. Focus on the fraud claim with your bank as your best option, but prepare emotionally for the possibility that the money is gone.

"What if the scammer contacts me again?" Don't respond. Block immediately. Report the new contact to all the agencies where you filed reports.

"Should I warn the scammer's other victims?" Be careful here. If you find their profiles on dating sites, report them to the platform. Don't confront the scammer or try to become a vigilante—it can be dangerous and compromise investigations.

"How do I prevent this from happening again?" Education, verification, and trusting your instincts. You're already doing this by reading articles like this one.

You've Taken an Important Step

If you've read this far, you're someone who takes action. You're not letting what happened define you. You're doing what you can to protect yourself and others.

Reporting a romance scammer is not easy. It requires:

• Facing what happened

• Organizing documentation

• Spending time on phone calls and forms

• Overcoming shame or embarrassment

• Persisting even when results aren't immediate

But you're doing it anyway. That takes courage.

Remember:

• This wasn't your fault

• Reporting helps more people than just you

• Your actions matter even if you don't see immediate results

• You're stronger than you think

Get Complete Support for What Comes Next

Reporting is just the beginning. You've protected yourself legally and helped protect others, but now you need a comprehensive plan for recovery, rebuilding, and moving forward with confidence.

Beyond Reporting: Your Complete Roadmap

If you're looking for comprehensive guidance that covers not just reporting, but every aspect of navigating life after a romance scam, The Romance Scam Survival Guide gives you everything you need in one place.

This complete guide includes:

✓ Detailed reporting templates — Pre-written scripts and forms to make reporting easier

✓ Financial recovery strategies — Maximize your chances of getting money back

✓ Emotional healing roadmap — Process the betrayal and rebuild trust in yourself

✓ Protection protocols — Never fall for manipulation again

✓ Red flag identification — Recognize scammers before you invest emotionally

✓ Recovery timeline — Know what to expect and when

✓ Self-compassion exercises — Stop blaming yourself and start healing

✓ Moving forward strategies — When and how to trust again

The Romance Scam Survival Guide takes you from crisis to recovery to thriving again—with practical, compassionate guidance every step of the way.

You've already taken the hardest step by recognizing what happened and taking action to report it. Now give yourself the complete support system you deserve.

Get your copy here: https://scamprooflove.com/the-romance-scam-survival-guide

This isn't just another generic fraud guide. It's specifically designed for people who've experienced romance scams and catfishing—people who are dealing with both financial and emotional betrayal. People like you who deserve real answers and real support.

Final Thoughts: You're Not Alone

Thousands of people report romance scams every year. You're part of a community of people who trusted, who were deceived, and who are now taking action.

What you need to know right now:

• You were targeted by professionals — These scammers know exactly what they're doing

• Your capacity for trust is a strength — It was exploited, not a weakness

• Reporting helps more than you know — Even if you never see direct results

• You will heal from this — With time, support, and the right resources

• You can trust again — More wisely, with verification, but you can

The fact that you're here, reading this guide, taking the steps to report and protect yourself—that shows resilience. That shows strength. That shows you're not going to let this define you.

You've got this. And you don't have to do it alone.

Quick Reference: Essential Reporting Links

Save these for easy access:

Federal Agencies:

• FBI IC3: https://www.ic3.gov

• FTC Report Fraud: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov

• Identity Theft: https://www.identitytheft.gov

Financial:

• Contact your bank's fraud department directly

• PayPal Resolution Center: paypal.com/resolutioncenter

• Credit bureau fraud alerts: Equifax.com, Experian.com, TransUnion.com

Dating Platforms:

• Report directly through the app/website where you met the scammer

• Each platform has a "Report" button on profiles

Community Resources:

• Romance Scams: https://www.romancescams.org

• Scam Digger: https://www.scamdigger.com

• Social Catfish: https://socialcatfish.com

Support:

• AARP Fraud Watch: 1-877-908-3360

• National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-372-8311

One More Thing: Update Your Progress

As you work through reporting, keep track of what you've completed. Create a simple tracking document:

This tracker helps you stay organized and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.

You've Done Something Powerful Today

By reading this guide and taking steps to report, you've:

✓ Refused to stay silent

✓ Taken action to protect others

✓ Created legal documentation for your protection

✓ Reclaimed agency in your situation

✓ Started the path toward healing

That's not small. That's significant.

The road ahead might feel uncertain, but you're already on it. You're already moving forward. And with each step—each report filed, each day that passes, each moment you choose to heal rather than hide—you're becoming stronger.

You didn't deserve what happened to you. But you absolutely deserve support, healing, and a future where you can trust again.

Keep going. You're doing better than you think.