How do I report a scam on behalf of someone else?
You can file a report on someone else's behalf with the FTC, Action Fraud, or Scamwatch. Describe your relationship to the victim and what you know about the fraud.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
Family members, carers, and friends frequently report on behalf of scam victims who are elderly, vulnerable, or who do not have the confidence or technical ability to file themselves. All major reporting agencies accept third-party reports and specifically invite them for cases involving vulnerable adults.
When filing on someone else's behalf, describe clearly that you are reporting for another person. Provide the victim's details and your relationship to them. Include as much information about the scam as you know. If you are the victim's legal guardian, carer, or hold power of attorney, note this in the report.
For bank reports, you will typically need to call rather than file online, as the bank needs to verify your authority to act. If you are a legal guardian or hold a third-party authority on the account, have this documentation ready. Many UK banks have vulnerable customer teams that are trained to handle third-party fraud reports sensitively.
If you are concerned that a vulnerable adult is at ongoing risk — continuing to send money, still in contact with the scammer, or unable to recognise the fraud — also contact Adult Protective Services (US) or your local council's Adult Social Care team (UK). These services can intervene to provide support and, in serious cases, safeguarding protection.
Common red flags
- The victim is still in contact with the scammer and sending money
- The victim is isolated from family and friends as a result of the scammer's influence
- The victim becomes defensive or upset when the fraud is raised with them
- Significant sums have been withdrawn from the victim's account
- The victim is elderly and the scammer is the primary contact for advice
What to do now
- File a third-party report at the FTC, Action Fraud, or Scamwatch
- Contact the victim's bank to flag potential exploitation
- Contact Adult Protective Services or Adult Social Care if safety is a concern
- Do not confront the scammer directly — this could escalate the situation
- Involve other trusted people in the victim's life gradually
- Read /family-safety for guidance on protecting vulnerable family members
Frequently asked questions
Can I report without the victim's permission?
Yes. You do not need the victim's permission to report to the FTC, Action Fraud, or Adult Protective Services. In fact, waiting for permission can delay protection in urgent cases.
What if the victim does not believe they are being scammed?
This is very common. Focus on practical protection — talking to the bank about adding account alerts, involving a GP or social worker if there are vulnerability concerns — rather than trying to convince the victim in direct confrontation.