Are recovery DMs after a scam legitimate?
No. Unsolicited direct messages offering to recover your lost money are a second scam targeting people who have already been victimised.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
After a scam — especially if you mentioned it publicly online — you may receive direct messages from people claiming to be recovery experts, lawyers, or former law-enforcement officers who can retrieve your funds. They often know details of what happened, which makes them seem credible.
This is a recovery scam. Fraudsters monitor public complaints, scam-victim forums, and social media for targets. They will ask for an upfront fee, taxes, or legal costs — and then either disappear or invent more charges. No upfront-fee service can genuinely recover funds from a scam, and none should be trusted based on an unsolicited message.
Common red flags
- Unsolicited DM offering to recover your lost money
- They seem to know details about the original scam
- Claims to be affiliated with a regulator, law-enforcement, or a known firm
- Upfront payment required before any work begins
- Guarantee of full or partial recovery
- Pressure to act quickly before the opportunity is gone
What to do now
- Do not pay any upfront fee
- Block and report the account
- Seek help only from your bank and official fraud services
- Report the recovery scam to your national fraud service
- Be cautious about discussing your situation publicly where scammers may monitor
Frequently asked questions
How did they know I was scammed?
Scammers actively search social media, complaint boards, and forums for people discussing losses. Lists of known victims are also bought and sold between fraud groups.
Is there any legitimate recovery help available?
Your bank can dispute unauthorised transactions. Official fraud services can log reports and may assist with investigations. Neither charges upfront fees or guarantees recovery.