What to do if you've been scammed

July 30, 2024

You were scammed. What can you do now? Learn what steps you can take to minimize the damage and avoid being scammed again. 

1. Stop contact with the scammer. Hang up the phone, don’t reply to any messages. Don’t make any payments to the scammer and beware of additional scammers who may contact you claiming they can help you get your lost money back.

2. Notify the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion).

3. Check your computer. if your computer was accessed or otherwise affected by a scam, check to make sure that your anti-virus is up-to-date and running and that your system is free of malware and keylogging software. You may also need to seek the help of a computer repair company.

4. Change ALL your account passwords. Update your bank, credit card, social media, phone and email account passwords to try to limit further unauthorized access. Make sure to choose strong passwords when you change passwords.

5. Report the scam. Reporting helps protect others. While authorities can’t always track down perpetrators, they can gather information to record patterns of abuse. https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/


What if You’ve been a Victim of ID Theft?

  • File a police report
  • Put a fraud alert on your credit reports
  • Consider putting a credit freeze on your reports
  • Check your credit reports
  • Contact any institution directly affected
  • Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) 1-877-438-4338
  • Notify affected creditors or bank
  • Send creditors a copy of your ID theft report
  • Change all account passwords
  • Contact the Social Security fraud hot line
  • Contact your telephone and utility companies


Resources:

https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/ojp/help-for-crime-victims/Pages/Identity%20Theft.aspx

https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-do-if-you-were-scammed


How to Support Fraud Victims

  • Avoid judgment
  • Listen empathetically
  • Remind them that fraud criminals are experts at deception and that they are not alone
  • Help them report the crime to their bank, credit card company, etc.
  • Help them change their passwords or freeze their credit
  • Help them file a fraud report
  • Be available to discuss any new suspicious solicitations
  • Help them identify a financial advocate to help their money safe from future exploitation


Our Recent News

Alexander & Sherise

April 23, 2025
A Journey of Hope and Resilience

Bryce's Pumpkins

By Brittany Hoversten • April 14, 2025
At Catholic Charities Emergency Services, we see countless acts of kindness every day, but a recent donation from a remarkable young man left a special mark on our hearts. On a chilly Friday afternoon, Bryce, a 17-year-old student at Albany High School, donated an impressive 860 pounds of squash. This generous gift highlights the power of community support, proving that even in challenging times, there is always hope. Bryce has grown his own pumpkins, squash, and gourds under the name Bryce Pumpkin’s, which has become known for fresh, locally grown produce. His efforts extend beyond growing, as he sells his harvest at farmers markets and even had a booth at the Made in Minnesota Expo in November, supporting local businesses and sustainable farming. What makes his story even more inspiring is how Bryce uses his success to give back. His donation will directly help families in need through our food shelf, which serves St. Cloud and surrounding areas. Bryce’s squash donation will be a vital part of our monthly food distribution, helping to provide nutritious meals to hundreds of families in our community. His gesture demonstrates not only a heart full of compassion but also the interconnectedness of local farmers, businesses, and families. When young people like Bryce step up, it’s a reminder that the future is well cared for. Bryce’s story proves that even small acts of kindness can grow into something truly transformative. Through donations like Bryce’s, we are able to provide food to those who need it most, including seniors on fixed incomes and single parents working multiple jobs. The connection between local farmers and organizations like Catholic Charities sustains our community and fosters hope for those struggling. Looking ahead to the upcoming growing season, we’re excited to see what other generous community members, like Bryce, will share. His efforts remind us that every small contribution adds up to something much bigger, and it’s not just about the food—we’re also strengthening our community and inspiring hope for all.

Pack the Porches 2025!

March 28, 2025
PACK THE PORCHES FOOD AND FUND DRIVE RECEIVED OVER 6,000 POUNDS OF FOOD AND MORE THAN $21,000