Can the police actually recover money lost to scammers?
Police can recover scam proceeds in some cases — particularly where the scammer is domestic and identifiable — but recovery is far from guaranteed and is more likely through your bank than through a criminal investigation.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
Police forces have specialist fraud and economic crime units that investigate significant fraud cases, and they do recover assets in some operations. In the UK, the National Economic Crime Centre and regional police fraud squads work on serious cases. However, their capacity is not unlimited, and individual cases below a certain threshold may not receive active investigation, though reports still contribute to intelligence.
Asset recovery powers under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (UK) or equivalent statutes abroad allow authorities to freeze and seize criminal proceeds. However, these powers are typically used in cases where a suspect has been identified and prosecuted, or where there is sufficient evidence for a civil asset recovery order.
For the majority of scam victims, the more practical path to financial recovery is through the bank — chargeback, APP fraud reimbursement, or Section 75 claims — rather than waiting for criminal asset recovery. These processes are faster, do not depend on identifying and apprehending the scammer, and are available regardless of whether police investigate.
This is general information and outcomes vary enormously depending on the nature of the scam, the amount involved, and whether the scammer can be identified. A legal adviser can assess your specific situation.
Common red flags
- You have been contacted by someone claiming to be a police officer who can recover your money for a fee — this is a scam
- Your case has been open for a long time with no update
- The scammer operated entirely overseas using untraceable methods
What to do now
- Report to police and your national fraud authority — you will receive a crime reference number
- Pursue bank-level recovery in parallel: chargeback, APP reimbursement, Section 75
- Keep your crime reference number — it supports bank disputes and insurance claims
- Follow up periodically with your fraud authority on the status of your report
- Do not pay anyone claiming to recover your money — recovery scams are common
Frequently asked questions
Should I hire a private investigator to find the scammer?
This is a personal decision but comes with significant costs and uncertain outcomes. A reputable PI may help identify a domestic scammer, but most fraud originates overseas and untraceable funds rarely make private recovery viable. Consult a legal adviser before spending on private investigations.
What is a crime reference number and why do I need it?
A crime reference number is issued when you report a crime to police. It is your official record that the matter has been reported. Banks, insurers, and financial ombudsman services may ask for it when processing fraud claims. Always request one when reporting.