How to Report a Scam

If you see or experience an online scam, reporting it quickly helps protect others. Even if you are unsure, it is better to report than stay silent.

1. Do Not Send More Money

If you suspect a scam:

• Stop all payments immediately
  
  

• Do not send more money to “recover” losses
  
  

• Do not share personal information, passwords, or codes
  
  

Report the Scam on Facebook

Many scams in Vanuatu are promoted through Facebook posts, ads, pages, or private messages.

To report on Facebook:

• Tap the three dots (⋯) on the post, ad, message, or profile
  
  

• Select “Find support or report”
  
  

• Choose Scam or fraud
  
  

• Submit the report
  
  

Reporting helps Facebook remove scam content and prevent it from spreading.

Report to the Vanuatu Police – Fraud Unit

Scams involving money transfers, bank accounts, or identity misuse should also be reported to the Fraud Unit of the Vanuatu Police.

When reporting, try to include:

• Names or aliases used by the scammer
  
  

• Screenshots of messages, posts, or ads
  
  

• Bank or payment details provided to you
  
  

• Dates, amounts, and platforms used
  
  

Even if money is not recovered, reports help authorities identify patterns and prevent future harm.

Report to Your Bank or Payment Provider

If you sent money:

• Contact your bank immediately
  
  

• Ask if the transaction can be stopped or flagged
  
  

• Provide all details and reference numbers
  
  

Speed matters. The sooner you act, the better the chance of limiting losses.

Get Community Support

Cyber Watch Committee (Inc.) can help by:

• Explaining common scam patterns
  
  

• Guiding you on reporting options
  
  

• Helping you warn others safely
  
  

We do not investigate crimes or replace authorities, but we support education, awareness, and prevention.

Important Reminder

Being scammed is not a personal failure.
Scammers are skilled and target trust, urgency, and emotion.

Reporting scams helps:

• Protect families and communities
  
  

• Stop scams from spreading
  
  

• Build a safer digital environment in Vanuatu