Scam Response Checklist

A time-ordered checklist for the first hours and days after fraud, to limit losses and protect your identity.

What you will need

What happened? (text): Bank or card fraud, SIM swap, investment scam, online shopping scam, romance scam, identity theft.
How long ago did you notice? (text): Within hours, a few days, or longer.
Amount lost (R): An estimate is fine.
What did you share? (text): PIN, OTP, passwords, ID number, bank app login, remote access to your phone.

How it works

Order steps by urgency. Always first: call your bank's fraud line using the number on the back of your card or in the official app (never a number the scammer gave) and ask them to block cards, accounts and app access. If SIM swap or phone compromise: contact your network provider at once. If passwords or OTPs were shared: change passwords from a clean device and turn on extra security. Then: open a case at SAPS and get a case number; apply for protective registration with the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS); if investment or crypto scam, report to the FSCA; keep screenshots, bank statements and messages; tell family you trust. Warn: 'Be careful of recovery scams: people who promise to get your money back for a fee.'

What you get

Your steps in order
Evidence to keep

What it means

Acting now gives the bank the best chance to stop or recall payments, though recovery is not certain.
Protective registration with SAFPS can make it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.

Next step: Want help interpreting this? Speak to your bank, SAPS, or an attorney for large losses. If the stress is heavy, the Cleared Mind 24-hour Careline is 0800 212 146.

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