How to Report a Dating Scam (Step by Step)
Reporting a dating scam protects future victims and may help with financial recovery. This guide covers every reporting channel.
Where to Report
Report to all applicable channels:
- •FTC — reportfraud.ftc.gov (federal consumer protection)
- •FBI IC3 — ic3.gov (internet crime complaint center)
- •Dating app — report function with screenshots
- •Your bank — if money was sent, report for possible reversal
- •State attorney general — many have specific fraud units
- •AARP fraud helpline — 877-908-3360 (helps everyone, not just seniors)
- •Local police — file a report for your records
What to Include
When reporting, include: all communication screenshots, profile screenshots, any phone numbers or email addresses used, payment records and transaction details, timeline of the relationship and requests.
Why Reporting Matters
Only 15% of scam victims report. Every report adds data that helps law enforcement identify networks and prevent future victims. Reporting is not about you — it is about the next person.
Confirm the Scam Pattern
Evaluate your situation before reporting.
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Related Tools & Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Will reporting get my money back?+
Reporting increases the chance but does not guarantee recovery. Bank transfers reported within 24-48 hours have the best chance. Gift cards and crypto are rarely recoverable regardless.
Is it too late to report?+
No. Report at any time. Law enforcement uses reports to build cases against scam networks, and your report may connect to others in a larger investigation.
About the Author
Ravi Shankar
Founder, GuyID · Principal Data Analyst · 13+ Years in Data Analytics
Ravi Shankar is the founder of GuyID and a Principal Data Analyst with over 13 years of experience in data and analytics. He built GuyID's suite of 83 free dating safety tools and curates plain-language guides that keep primary sources, limitations, and trust boundaries visible.
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