Scammed? what to do

Report to Local Police

Last updated September 18, 2026

The short answer

File a police report for scams involving local crimes, threats, or in-person fraud

For certain scams, especially those involving in-person contact, threats, or local crime, filing a police report is important. A police report creates an official record and may be needed for insurance claims, bank disputes, and identity theft recovery.

What they handle

  • In-person scams and fraud (someone came to your door or met you in person)
  • Threats or harassment from scammers
  • Grandparent/family emergency scams involving cash or courier pickup
  • Rental scams involving local properties
  • Marketplace scams involving local meetups
  • Identity theft when a police report is needed for recovery

How to file a report

  1. 1

    Call your local police non-emergency number

    Don't call 911 unless you're in immediate danger. Look up your local police department's non-emergency number.

  2. 2

    Explain that you want to report a fraud or scam

    Some departments let you file online. Others require you to come in or will send an officer.

  3. 3

    Provide a clear account of what happened

    Stick to facts: dates, amounts, how you were contacted, what you did, and any information about the scammer.

  4. 4

    Bring your evidence

    Print or bring screenshots, messages, receipts, bank statements, and any communication with the scammer.

  5. 5

    Get a copy of the police report

    Ask for the report number and a copy. You'll need it for bank disputes, insurance claims, and identity theft recovery.

What you'll need

  • A clear timeline of what happened
  • All communication with the scammer (texts, emails, call logs)
  • Financial records (bank statements, receipts, wire transfer confirmations)
  • Any physical evidence (letters, packages, items received)
  • Descriptions or identifying information about the scammer

What to expect

Local police may or may not be able to investigate, since many scams are run from other states or countries. But the police report itself is valuable. Banks, credit card companies, and insurance providers often require one. It also creates a record that federal agencies like the FBI can access.