What to Do If You Are a Victim of Wire Fraud

1. Contact Your Bank Immediately

• Report the fraud: Inform your bank as soon as possible and provide all relevant details about the transaction.
• Request a wire recall: Ask your bank to initiate a recall or reversal of the wire transfer.
• Freeze your accounts: If you suspect your accounts are compromised, request a freeze or hold on your accounts to prevent further unauthorized activity.

2. Notify Law Enforcement

• File a report with the FBI: Submit a report through the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.
• Contact your local police: File a police report to have an official record of the crime.
• Involve the Secret Service: For large amounts, the U.S. Secret Service may assist in recovering wire fraud.

3. Gather Evidence

• Document everything: Save emails, text messages, invoices, and other correspondence related to the fraudulent transaction.
• Obtain transaction details: Secure copies of the wire transfer instructions and receipts.
• Note timelines: Record the exact times the wire was sent, when you discovered the fraud, and when you contacted your bank.

4. Notify the Beneficiary Bank

• Contact the receiving bank: Alert the beneficiary bank (where the funds were sent) about the fraud and request them to freeze the funds if possible.
• Provide evidence: Share transaction details with the receiving bank to support their investigation.

5. Consult Legal and Financial Professionals

• Hire an attorney: Consult a lawyer experienced in wire fraud cases to explore legal options and ensure compliance with deadlines.
• Speak to a forensic accountant: If necessary, an expert can help trace the funds and identify the fraudsters.
• Consider civil recovery: If your funds cannot be recovered, consider filing a civil lawsuit against liable parties, such as the bank or any negligent intermediaries.