Fraud, as a type of criminal activity, has become a global issue, causing significant financial and legal damages to numerous individuals and organizations every year. Whether fraud occurs online, in the business sector, financial transactions, or everyday life, victims often find themselves in a difficult situation, unsure of how to restore their rights.
In this article, we will thoroughly examine what to do if you have become a victim of fraud, what legal steps to take, how to approach law enforcement agencies, and what preventive measures to apply to avoid such issues in the future.
What is Fraud and How to Recognize It?
Fraud is a form of embezzlement, a deliberate act intended to deceive or abuse trust to cause harm to an individual or organization for financial gain. It can manifest in various forms, ranging from financial fraud to identity theft and misuse of personal data.
Main Types of Fraud
- Financial Fraud – When an individual or organization deceitfully takes your money, such as through fake investment schemes, bank account manipulation, or fraudulent loans.
- Online Fraud – Includes phishing, fake e-commerce, deceptive websites, and digital extortion.
- Document Fraud – Involves the use of forged documents, such as passports, contracts, or falsified rights.
- Employment Fraud – Fake job offers that require upfront payments but do not actually provide real employment.
- False Profit Promises – “Get-rich-quick schemes,” fake gambling winnings, and illegal business proposals.
What to Do If You Have Become a Victim of Fraud
If you have already fallen victim to fraud, it is crucial to act as quickly as possible and follow the right steps to minimize damages and seek justice.
1. Preserve All Evidence
Any detail related to the fraud can serve as crucial evidence. Examples of evidence include:
- Emails and messages
- Payment receipts and bank transfer records
- Fraudulent contracts or documents
- Videos or audio recordings that can prove the deception
2. Contact Law Enforcement Authorities
In Armenia, several law enforcement agencies handle fraud cases, depending on the nature of the incident:
- RA Police – The first step is to report the fraud to the police, who will initiate a criminal case.
- RA Prosecutor’s Office – A report can also be submitted to the Prosecutor’s Office, which has the authority to initiate a criminal investigation.
- RA Investigative Committee – Regardless of where the case is initiated, the Investigative Committee is responsible for conducting the preliminary investigation, making it potentially more efficient to file the report directly with them.
- Central Bank (for banking fraud cases) – If the fraud involves banking or financial transactions, you should contact the Central Bank’s regulatory body.
- RA Courts – In many fraud cases, it is necessary to file an urgent lawsuit in court to secure the current situation or legally prevent the transfer of stolen property or funds to a third party.
3. Notify Your Bank or Financial Institution
If the fraud involves your bank account or card, contact your bank immediately.
- Request to suspend suspicious transactions.
- Ask if it is possible to receive a refund.
- Change your card details or passwords.
4. Consult a Lawyer
If the case is serious and involves large sums of money or important documents, legal advice can be crucial. A lawyer can help properly draft complaints and applications, file a lawsuit in court, and protect your interests.
If you have fallen victim to fraud, LSA can provide high-quality legal consultation and support, from document preparation to court representation. Our specialists will help you gather the necessary evidence, draft proper complaints, and reach out to the relevant authorities, ensuring you receive a fair resolution.
5. Inform Others
If the fraud was carried out on a public or online platform, it is important to notify others so they can also be cautious. You can post about it on social media, report the issue on relevant platforms, or contact the media.
How to Prevent Fraud
To avoid such issues in the future, it is essential to follow a few key security rules:
- Always verify information – If you are offered high profits, free services, or a suspicious contract, always check the source.
- Do not trust unknown calls or messages – Especially if they request money or personal information.
- Use two-factor authentication – If you use online banking or social media, enable 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication).
- Do not open suspicious links or files – If you receive an email from an unknown source, do not open its attachments or links.
- Avoid making personal bank transfers to unknown individuals – If someone asks you to send money without any guarantees, it could be a scam.
- Always keep important documents safe – If you sign a contract, make sure you read it carefully and understand all its terms.
- Be cautious of fake job or business offers – If you are promised “unbelievable” income with little to no effort, it is most likely a scam.
Fraud can cause significant financial and psychological harm, but by taking the right legal actions, you can minimize your losses and protect your rights. It is important to stay vigilant, verify any suspicious offers or transactions, and most importantly, be informed about your rights.
If you or someone in your surroundings has fallen victim to fraud, do not hesitate to contact law enforcement authorities and seek legal assistance to recover your losses. Remember, information and vigilance are the best protection against fraud.
