Bank fraud report summary
I have been targeted by a scam on [date] and lost [amount]. The transaction was made to [merchant or account]. I request fraud protection and any available refunds.
Report a Scam in the United Kingdom
Save evidence, contact your bank, and report scams to Action Fraud and other UK authorities.
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Quick answer
Stop payments, preserve evidence, and report the scam to your bank and the UK government’s Action Fraud service.
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Official sources for United Kingdom
- Action Fraud (National crime reporting) — https://www.actionfraud.police.uk
Report fraud and cybercrime to the UK’s national fraud reporting centre. · Checked 2026-05-30 - UK Government - Report fraud and cyber crime (Government) — https://www.gov.uk/report-fraud-and-cyber-crime
Confirm the official channels for reporting fraud and cybercrime in the UK. · Checked 2026-05-30
How to verify official information
Before applying, paying a fee, travelling, or submitting documents, confirm the latest requirements with the responsible official authority. Rules, fees, forms, deadlines, and office procedures can change.
Use the official government portal, embassy or consulate, police or cybercrime authority, bank, airline, employer, tax authority, or consumer protection authority depending on the problem. Avoid unofficial paid sites that imitate government services.
Who this is for
This guide is for UK residents and visitors who have experienced a scam, phishing attempt, or fraudulent request.
Checklist
- Collect scam evidence
- Report to your bank or payment provider
- File a report with Action Fraud
- Save the crime reference number
- Change affected passwords
Templates
Collect essential evidence
Keep all scam messages, website records, transaction details, and any contact information used. This evidence can support your report and any dispute with banks or authorities.
Report to your bank first
Contact your bank or payment provider and explain the scam. They can cancel cards, reverse suspicious payments, and advise on whether to report to Action Fraud.
Use official reporting portals
Report the scam to Action Fraud for fraud involving UK banks, online scams, or identity theft. Keep the crime reference number for future follow-up.
Follow up with authorities
After submitting the report, save the crime reference number and check for updates. Ask the bank and Action Fraud how to proceed if you receive further contact from the scammer.
Protect your identity
If personal details were exposed, update passwords and monitor your accounts. Consider contacting credit reference agencies if your name or address were used without permission.
Review your security settings
Update the login details for financial services and email accounts that may have been exposed. Check whether any suspicious activity appears on your accounts during the weeks after the scam.
Required documents or information
- Evidence of the scam message or transaction
- Bank statements showing suspicious activity
- Any written communication with the scammer
- Your identity or account details if requested by the bank
- Action Fraud crime reference number if reported
Common mistakes
- Thinking you only need to report the scam to the website or seller.
- Not taking a crime reference number from Action Fraud.
- Ignoring follow-up instructions from your bank.
- Continuing to reuse passwords after a phishing attempt.
- Assuming small losses do not need an official report.
FAQ
- What if the scammer used my name or address?
Report this to your bank and Action Fraud, and monitor your identity for misuse. If necessary, update passwords and ask for fraud protection.
- Do I need a police report for a scam?
Action Fraud provides a national crime reference. Local police may also be useful if the scam involves threats, theft, or repeat harassment.
Same topic in related countries
If your problem crosses borders, compare the same practical checklist in nearby or related country hubs.
Editorial note
This guide is written for UK residents reporting scams to official authorities and banks.
Last updated 2026-05-31 · Sources checked 2026-05-30.
Disclaimer: This page is practical information only. It is not legal, immigration, financial, medical, or official government advice. Rules, fees, deadlines, and procedures can change.
Independent practical guides. Official source links where available. No account required. Always confirm final requirements with the responsible authority.