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You Got Scammed. Now What? Steps to Stay Safe Next Time

  • Writer: Darion Ducharme
    Darion Ducharme
  • 7 days ago
  • 3 min read

Man that got scammed facepalming with credit card on one hand and phone on the other

We’ve all heard the stories: someone clicks a link, answers a call, or shares something they shouldn’t have, and suddenly, their bank account is drained, or their identity is stolen.


If this just happened to you, take a deep breath. You’re not alone.


Scams are getting more sophisticated every day. The important thing now is what you do next.


Mistakes are just learning moments in disguise. We’re here to walk with you, step by step, so you can feel safe, confident, and more protected in the future.


If you’ve been scammed on Facebook or suspect a Facebook Marketplace scam, follow our step-by-step guide below. 


Step 1: IF YOU GOT ScAMMED - Pause, Breathe, and Don’t Blame Yourself


Getting scammed on Facebook doesn’t mean you’re foolish or “bad with tech.” These scams are designed to trick smart, caring people.


Scammers use fear, urgency, and emotion to make you act fast. It happens to Elders, young adults, professionals—anyone.


So take a moment. You’re not the first, and you won’t be the last. What matters is how you respond now.


Step 2: Take Immediate Action to Protect Yourself


Here’s what to do right away.


  • Contact your bank or credit card company. Tell them what happened. They can freeze your account, reverse charges, or stop more fraud.

  • Change your passwords. Especially for any accounts that use the same email or password that the scammer saw.

  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of protection, making it harder for scammers to get in.

  • Report the scam. Visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or call 1-888-495-8501. Reporting helps protect others, too.


If your email, phone, or social accounts were involved, let your service provider know right away.


Step 3: Learn What Happened (Without Shame)


Let’s unpack it. What kind of scam was it?


  • Phishing? You clicked a fake link or gave info on a lookalike website.

  • Phone scam? Someone called pretending to be your bank, CRA, or a family member.

  • Fake tech support? A pop-up told you your device had a virus and to call a number.

  • Online shopping scam? You paid for something that never arrived, or the site vanished.


Once you understand what happened, you’ll feel more in control next time.


Step 4: Strengthen Your DefenSes


Now that you know what to look for, here are ways to protect yourself.


  • Use strong, unique passwords for every account.

  • Get a password manager to store your login details safely and create new ones.

  • Don’t click on links from unknown sources. Check email addresses carefully. If you’re unsure, don’t open it.

  • Avoid sending personal information over text, phone, or email.

  • Talk to someone you trust before making a money decision online.


Remember: you can always pause and ask for help. That pause is powerful.


Step 5: Talk About It (Yes, Really)


Shame keeps scams in the dark—and that’s where they grow.


Share your story with a friend, family member, or community group. You’re not alone, and you might help someone else avoid the same trap.


If you’re part of a First Nations or remote community, this kind of sharing can be especially powerful. When one person learns something, the whole community can benefit.


Step 6: Reach Out to Teqare for Support

We’re here for you. Whether you’ve been scammed or just want to learn more about staying safe, Teqare offers:


  • Community-focused workshops on scam awareness

  • Easy-to-follow guides and resources

  • Tools for Elders, kids, and families


You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’re here to help you feel strong, informed, and safe online.


Closing Message: You’re Still in Control


Being scammed on Facebook doesn’t mean you’ve lost your power. With the right tools and knowledge, you can come back stronger.


Let’s build that confidence together—so next time, you’ll know exactly what to do. 


Contact us today to find out more about our workshops.


Disclaimer: At Teqare, we share knowledge to help protect and empower our communities online. The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal or financial advice. Always seek guidance from a trusted professional for your specific situation. We do our best to keep information current and relevant, but digital threats can evolve quickly. Stay alert, stay curious, and reach out if you need support—we’re here to help.


Photo by Mikhail Nilov

 
 
 

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