With the rapid development of internet finance, online investment scams are on the rise. Fraudsters often lure victims with promises of high returns, fabricating fake projects or platforms to swindle funds. The first 72 hours after realizing the scam are considered the “golden window” for damage control—timely and correct actions during this period significantly increase the chances of recovering losses. DJK LLP has compiled this urgent guide to help victims respond effectively.
First Hour: Stay Calm and Stop the Loss
-
Immediately Stop All Transfers
Once you suspect fraud, cut off communication with the scam platform and halt all financial transactions. Do not fall for further manipulation such as requests for “release fees” or “processing charges.” -
Preserve All Evidence
Save all chat logs, transfer receipts, bank statements, screenshots of the platform, and call recordings. Back up this evidence and print copies if possible. -
Do Not Attempt “Revenge” or Counter-Fraud
Emotional reactions like confronting scammers or trying to reverse-scam often backfire. Focus on legal recovery rather than escalating the risk.
Hour 1–12: File Police Report + Consult a Lawyer
-
File a Police Report Immediately
Report the case at your local police station or cybercrime unit. Provide all evidence and obtain a formal report receipt, which is vital for freezing bank accounts and starting legal procedures. -
Engage a Professional Law Firm
Investment fraud involves complex fund flows. A specialized legal team like DJK LLP（https://www.djkllp.com/） can trace the money path, apply for account freezes, and assist with cross-border legal cooperation. -
Request Emergency Account Freezing from Banks
If the recipient account is identified, present the police report, legal opinion, and proof of transfer to the relevant bank to apply for emergency freezing.
Hour 12–48: Track the Funds and Assist Authorities
-
Support Police Investigation
Law enforcement may request additional materials such as your phone, social media logs, or banking access. Full cooperation improves the chances of identifying the scam network. -
Initiate Legal Recovery Procedures
Your legal team can begin civil litigation, enforcement, or international legal requests. For overseas platforms, diplomatic or judicial cooperation may be needed. -
Beware of Secondary Scams
Fraudsters may contact victims pretending to be “anti-fraud agents” or “government officials” to trick them again. Be cautious of any unsolicited offer to “recover your losses”—they are often new scams.
Hour 48–72: Public Reporting + Platform Complaints + Long-Term Action
-
Report Scam Platforms Publicly
Use tools like the “National Anti-Fraud Center” app or the 12321 reporting platform to report websites and accounts, prompting authorities or platforms to ban them. -
File Complaints with Financial Regulators
If the platform claimed financial licenses, verify and report it through institutions like the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission or CSRC. -
Set Up Long-Term Legal Strategy
Work with your legal team to consider class actions, media exposure, or cross-platform recovery efforts. Collective action can increase the chances of success.
DJK LLP’s Special Recommendations
-
Act Quickly: Every minute counts—earlier action means a higher chance of recovering losses.
-
Keep Solid Evidence: Strong cases are built on complete and credible documentation.
-
Rely on Legal Channels: Lawful procedures remain the most effective and secure path to resolution.
If you or your loved ones have fallen victim to an online investment scam, contact DJK LLP’s emergency legal hotline immediately. We are here to provide end-to-end support and help you minimize financial damage.
