How do I report a scam to the police?
For non-emergency scams, call your local police non-emergency line or file online. For ongoing crimes or physical danger, call 911 (US) or 999 (UK) immediately.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
Most financial scams are handled by specialist fraud units rather than patrol officers, so calling your local police station directly may result in being redirected. In the US, many city and county police departments allow online crime reporting for fraud at their official website. Look for an online crime report portal or call the non-emergency number (not 911 unless you are in immediate danger).
In the UK, report to your local police via 101 for non-urgent matters, or online at your force's website. The police will usually refer the matter to Action Fraud unless there is a local suspect or ongoing criminal activity such as courier fraud where a criminal is actively visiting your address.
Having a police report number is valuable even if the police cannot investigate directly. Your bank, insurance company, and credit reference agency will often request a crime reference number to process fraud claims. It also demonstrates you took prompt action, which matters for chargeback timelines.
If you are elderly, vulnerable, or the scammer is still in contact with you, tell the police officer on the call. Many forces have dedicated vulnerability teams that can assist beyond the standard report process. For investment fraud or pension scams, also report to your national financial regulator.
Common red flags
- A scammer continues to contact you after you stopped responding
- Someone used your identity to open accounts in your name
- You received courier fraud calls pretending to be police asking for your bank card
- A scam involved threats of violence or blackmail
- Your home address was obtained by a fraudster
- You witnessed an in-person scam targeting a neighbour or family member
What to do now
- Call the non-emergency police number or use the online reporting portal
- Record your crime reference number
- Provide the same details to your bank and to Action Fraud or the FTC
- Keep a personal log of all communications with the scammer
- If vulnerable or threatened, tell the operator immediately
- Visit /report-a-scam for a checklist of all reporting channels
Frequently asked questions
Will the police recover my money?
Police can apply for a restraint order to freeze assets or a recovery order if they identify the scammer's accounts, but this is rare and typically only happens in larger investigations. Your best chance of financial recovery is through your bank.
Do I need to report to both the police and the FTC?
Yes. Each agency has different tools and jurisdiction. The police can investigate local suspects; the FTC targets commercial patterns; the FBI can pursue interstate crimes. Filing with all three is best practice.