Whenever we are cheated or lied to it hits us hard. However, when we are victims of online scams it often hits harder. It’s because online scams often leave us feeling exposed, angry and powerless – especially when the very institutions that are supposed to protect us don’t seem to care, or unjustifiably pass the blame onto us. However, if you are a victim of an online scam you don’t have to accept that blame shifting, silence or rejection as the final word.
Whether the fraud involved a compromised bank transfer, a fake website stealing credentials, a hacked crypto wallet, or an investment scam, there are steps that can be taken to challenge how banks or exchanges respond. While not all cases can be progressed, many cases are worth pressing. The difference lies in how you prepare and present your evidence.
Start with the Facts—Not Just the Feeling
Many victims approach their bank with the understandable emotion of betrayal and loss. But banks and exchanges operate on documented processes and strict rules. You’ll need more than a heartfelt explanation to make progress.
If you believe the fraud involved phishing, impersonation, or unauthorised access, try to compile all records related to the event. That includes emails, text messages, transaction confirmations, screenshots as well as any communications you had with the scammer. If your device shows signs of compromise, such as remote access or fake login prompts, that should be documented too.
Impossible Claims Deserve Scrutiny
One of the strongest lines of argument is showing that what happened couldn’t reasonably have happened—at least not without the bank or platform ignoring red flags.
For example, if a login took place from a location you’ve either never visited, or only minutes after you logged in from your home country, that’s a red flag. The same applies to logins from strange devices or browsers that have never been associated with your account before.
Banks and exchanges often track that data in the background, even if they don’t share it with users directly. If they claim the transaction was authenticated by you, you can ask what location and device were involved. Push for that data. It may help your case more than you realise.
Don’t Be Afraid to Escalate
Many people are told “there’s nothing we can do” in the first email or phone call. That’s not a decision—it’s a first-level response. Ask for the case to be reviewed formally. Request a copy of their fraud investigation process. In the UK and EU, consumers have rights to know how their complaints are assessed.
If you don’t get anywhere through the customer support channels, escalate to the bank’s complaints team or dispute resolution office. Make clear that you’re not accepting the decision until you see the evidence they relied on.
Crypto exchanges can be trickier, especially if they’re based outside your region. But major exchanges now face stricter regulatory requirements. Keep records of your communication and look into financial ombudsman services or regulatory bodies in their operating country.
Professional Support Can Shift the Odds
Victims who feel stuck don’t have to handle everything alone. There are organisations that help people build evidence-based complaints. Some legal professionals now specialise in financial crime recovery. Independent analysis of account activity and device logs can reveal indicators that banks or platforms may have missed.
If you choose to seek help, focus on support that prioritises transparency and evidence. Be cautious of anyone asking for upfront fees or making bold promises to “guarantee recovery.”
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
If you’ve been scammed and you’re getting nowhere with your bank or crypto exchange, our Cyber Response Team at Tardigrade Tech can help you make your case. We work with victims to uncover technical evidence, challenge flawed assumptions, and expose weak investigations. We know how institutions think—and we use that to help you push back, backed by real analysis.
Learn more about how we support scam victims at
