Got Scammed?

What to Do If You Let a Scammer Access Your Device

A Helpful Guide to Protect Yourself and Your Information

If you allowed someone remote access to your computer, tablet, or phone and later realized it was a scam, don’t panic. Follow the steps below to help secure your information and prevent further harm.

1- Disconnect Your Device

• Turn off Wi‑Fi or unplug your internet cable.
• Power off the device if you’re unsure how to disconnect.

This immediately stops the scammer from accessing your device.

2. Contact Your Bank Right Away

Let your bank know what happened. We can:

• Help protect your accounts by locking down access to your bank accounts and online banking until your device is cleaned and access can be turned back on and password reset
• Monitor for unusual activity
• Guide you if your information may have been stolen

3. Change Your Passwords (From a Different Device)

If practical, use another phone or computer to update your passwords—don’t do this on the affected device or network.

Update important accounts such as:

• Email
• Social media
• Shopping apps (Amazon, PayPal, etc.)
• Anything that stores personal or financial information

4. Remove Any Remote Access Software

If you installed programs like AnyDesk, TeamViewer, QuickAssist, LogMeIn, or others, uninstall them immediately.

5. Run a Security Scan

Run a full antivirus or anti‑malware scan on the device to check for harmful software.

If anything is found, follow the removal steps provided by your antivirus program.

6. Consider a Professional Device Check or Reset

If the scammer installed software, viewed sensitive information, or you’re unsure what they did, it may be safest to:

• Have a trusted technician inspect the device, or
• Fully reset the device to factory settings

7. Check Your Email and Other Accounts for Changes

Scammers sometimes set up:

• Email forwarding rules
• Recovery phone numbers or emails
• New accounts using your information

Review your account settings to make sure nothing has been changed.

8. Stay Alert for Follow‑Up Scams

Scammers often try again. Watch out for:

• Calls claiming they can “refund” you
• Requests to install new software
• People pretending to be bank employees, tech support, or government agencies

If you’re unsure whether a call or email is real, contact your bank directly.

9. Report the Scam

You can report the incident to:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• Local law enforcement, especially if money was lost

Reporting helps protect others from similar scams.

We’re Here to Help

If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsure about a call, email, or request: Contact us first. We’re always happy to help you stay safe.

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