How do I report a scam to an online platform?
Use the platform's built-in 'Report' button on the profile, listing, or message, then follow up with a written complaint to their support team referencing fraud or impersonation.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
Every major social network, marketplace, and messaging app has a reporting mechanism built into the interface. On Facebook and Instagram, tap the three-dot menu on any post, ad, or profile and choose 'Report.' On eBay or Amazon, use 'Report this seller' or 'Report a problem' in the order details. On WhatsApp, long-press a message and select 'Report.' These in-app reports feed into the platform's trust and safety teams.
In-app reporting alone may not be enough if you lost money. Follow up by emailing the platform's support team directly, clearly stating you were defrauded, including the username or listing URL of the scammer, the dates and amounts involved, and copies of all evidence. Use subject lines that include words like 'fraud,' 'impersonation,' or 'financial crime' to ensure the message reaches a specialist team.
For platforms operating in the EU, the Digital Services Act requires large platforms to have dedicated reporting channels for illegal content and fraud. In the US and UK, platforms are generally not legally liable for hosting scam content but many will remove it voluntarily and may share account data with law enforcement under a court order.
Always also report to the relevant national authority (FTC, IC3, Action Fraud, ACCC) in addition to the platform. Platform reports alone rarely result in money recovery; official reports create the paper trail needed for financial disputes.
Common red flags
- A seller or buyer's account was created very recently and has no reviews
- Conversations were moved off-platform to WhatsApp or Telegram
- The other party refused to use the platform's official payment system
- Prices were suspiciously below market value
- You were sent a fake platform-branded invoice or payment confirmation
- The account profile picture appears elsewhere on the internet
What to do now
- Use the in-app report button on the scammer's profile or listing
- Email platform support with full evidence and the word 'fraud' in the subject
- Preserve screenshots before the account is removed
- Report to the FTC or Action Fraud with the platform report as evidence
- Contact your bank if any payment was made
- Check /platforms for platform-specific fraud policies
Frequently asked questions
Will the platform tell me what action they took?
Most platforms do not disclose specific enforcement actions for privacy reasons, but they may send a generic message saying they have reviewed your report and taken action.
Can I get a refund through the platform?
Marketplaces like eBay and Amazon have buyer protection programs that can refund you if a seller committed fraud. Social networks generally do not offer financial restitution. Check the platform's buyer protection policy.