Job Scam Recovery Steps
Recover after a task, recruiter, or fake-job scam — protect your money, data, and from mule liability.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
First 10 minutes
- Stop depositing money — task-scam balances aren't real
- Stop moving money or parcels for any 'employer'
- Screenshot the platform, dashboard, and chats
First 24 hours
- Contact your bank about any deposits or transfers
- If you shared ID, watch for identity theft and consider a credit check
- Report to your national fraud service and the platform
Contact your bank or payment provider
- Report deposits/transfers and ask about recall
- If your account was used to move funds, tell your bank immediately
Evidence to preserve
- Job ad, contract, chats, and dashboard screenshots
- Payment records and any documents you sent
Secure your accounts and devices
- Secure accounts and monitor for identity misuse
Report it
- Report to your national fraud/cybercrime service
- Report to the platform, bank, or provider involved
- Keep any reference numbers you're given
Job scams can cost you money (task deposits, fees), your identity (ID and bank details shared during 'onboarding'), and even expose you to legal risk if you unknowingly moved money or goods as a mule.
Prioritise stopping any ongoing money movement, securing your identity, and reporting — particularly if you may have acted as a money mule, where prompt disclosure to your bank and police matters.
Frequently asked questions
What if I unknowingly moved money for a 'job'?
Stop immediately and tell your bank and police as soon as possible. Acting as a money mule can have legal consequences, and prompt, honest disclosure is important.