I know you are reading this feeling awful. But if you move now, there is a real chance of getting the money back. Leave the self-blame for later and make two phone calls first.
Do this now, from the top
- 1
Call the receiving bank and your own bank now
Tell them you transferred money to a fraudulent account and ask them to freeze it. In Japan, the Act on Damage Recovery from Fraudulent Transfers means that if the account is frozen while money remains in it, victims can be repaid from the balance. The sooner you call, the more is likely to still be there.
- 2
Report it to the police
In Japan, call #9110 or go to your nearest police station. A filed report also helps the account-freezing process along. Have your transfer record and your messages with the other party ready — screenshots of chat, email or social media.
- 3
If you paid in gift cards, contact the issuer
If you read out the numbers on an Apple, Google Play or Amazon gift card, contact that issuer's support and say you were defrauded. If the codes are unused they can sometimes be stopped. Keep the physical cards and receipts.
- 4
Save every message before you block them
Screenshot the account name, the messages and the transfer record while they still exist. Block the other party only after you have saved your evidence.
- 5
Call 188 for what to do next
In Japan, the consumer hotline (188) will walk you through the next concrete steps for your situation. Do not try to judge this alone — use the professionals.
⚠ And what not to do
- ✕Do not believe anyone who says you can get a refund by paying a fee first — that is a second scam targeting victims
- ✕Do not keep negotiating with the scammer to "give it back". You are only losing the time you need for the bank and the police
- ✕Do not stay silent out of embarrassment. You are the victim; this is entirely on them
Who you can call
No area code needed. Connects you to your nearest consumer affairs centre in Japan.
For non-emergency matters. They can also tell you whether it is a criminal case. Call 110 if it is an emergency.
Technical questions about malware infections and unauthorised access.
The phone numbers on this page are services within Japan. If you are elsewhere, contact your national consumer protection agency, your bank or card issuer directly, and your local police non-emergency line — the steps above still apply.
💬 Worth talking about at home today
Something to say at home: "If you ever realise you have sent money to someone, call me first — I will not be angry. If we are quick, it can often be recovered."