InvestingReviewed 18 August 2026

Refund or recovery scam

After a loss, someone claims they can recover your money—for an upfront fee or more personal information.

WHY IT WORKS

The hook

The promise of reversing a painful loss reaches people when they are eager for a solution.

WHAT THEY WANT

The endgame

A second payment, identity theft, or access to financial accounts.

WHAT TO NOTICE

Three repeating signals

  1. 01

    They know about your earlier loss and contact you first

  2. 02

    Recovery is guaranteed

  3. 03

    You must pay a fee, tax or deposit before funds are released

IF YOU ALREADY ACTED

Move quickly, without panic

  • Stop contact and payments
  • Tell your bank or payment provider
  • Secure any identity documents or account details you shared

Recovery depends on the payment method and circumstances. Contact the relevant bank, platform or local authority using independently verified details.

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