Agencies for reporting scams

   When it comes to reporting scams and con-artists, where do you turn?

   If you have the misfortune to be caught up in a scam, you will be very lucky to ever see any of your money again. Provided you haven't been trying to do anything illegal you will find agencies for reporting scams to who will do what they can to catch the con-artists. If, however, you've been trying to evade tax you are unlikely to find a sympathetic ear.

   Contact your local police department initially. They may direct you to a more appropriate agency or the federal police or if you are in the U.S., the Federal Bureau of Investigation.    Mail fraud can also be reported to the Postal Service.

   The Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Response Centre in the U.S. or A.S.I.C in Australia may be interested if the scam involves offshore investments. Bear in mind that reporting scams to these authorities may expose you to an un-bargained-for scrutiny by them so make sure your dealings and intentions are above board.

Fraudbureau  A free service with information and news on how to safely surf, shop and invest on the net, to alert and warn online customers, and where you can file and search for complaints about online vendors and online auctions.

Scamshield  The web site researches to find the scams that may affect you and provides information and resources for victims of fraud to get a refund, to take legal action, or to make a complaint.

RipoffReport  A good site to search for specific names etc reported as offshore ripoffs.

Fraudaid  A free fraud victim advocacy site.

SEC Investor Complaints.

National Fraud Information Center.

The Internet Crime Complaint Center

Australian Federal Police

You are here:
Reporting scams - Where to report scams and bodies that can be of assistance.

Offshore Scams and Rip-offs - an introduction to the biggest offshore investing danger.

Common scams - a description of the main types of scam commonly perpetrated offshore and onshore.

Spotting a scam - How to recognize a scam. Common traits of offshore scams.

Spotting a Scam Business - The features of businesses and organizations which are out to take your money while under the guise of a legitimate business operation.

Spotting a Con-artist - How to recognize the typical characteristics of the conman after your money.

Avoiding scams - How to go about avoiding being caught up in a scam onshore and offshore.

Information scams - a warning about a type of scam that targets small amounts from offshore information seekers.