Sent Money to a Scammer or the Wrong Account? What to Do in the First Hour

Speed is everything. Money sent to a fraudster is often moved to other accounts within minutes, but quick action can still get an account frozen and sometimes your money back. Here is exactly what to do, in order.

⏱️ Do this immediately

1. Call your bank’s fraud line nowUse the number on your bank’s app, website or the back of your card — not a number from social media. Give the date, time, amount, the receiving account and bank.
2. Ask them to contact the receiving bankYour bank can ask the receiving bank to place a hold (lien) on the money if it is still there. The faster you call, the better the chance.
3. Write everything downScreenshot the transaction, chats, phone numbers, websites and profiles of the scammer. Don’t delete anything.
4. Report to the police and EFCCMake a police report at your nearest station, and report online fraud to the EFCC (efcc.gov.ng). A police report or EFCC petition helps banks act.
5. Follow up in writingSend your bank an email or letter with the details and get a complaint reference number.

↩️ If it went to the wrong account (not a scam)

Tell your bank immediately with the details. Banks have procedures to contact the receiving bank and ask the account owner to return it. It can take time, especially if the account holder doesn’t respond. Never accept anyone who calls offering to “help recover” the money for a fee.

🏛️ If the bank does not help

If your bank doesn’t resolve your complaint, you can escalate it to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Consumer Protection Department through the CBN website, with your complaint reference number and evidence.

🛡️ Protect yourself next time

• Never share your OTP, PIN or BVN with anyone.
• Confirm account names before you send, and be suspicious if the name doesn’t match the person or business.
• For buying online, use payment on delivery or meet in a safe public place.
• Turn on transaction alerts and set daily transfer limits in your bank app.
• Be wary of investments that promise high returns quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get my money back from a scammer?

Sometimes, if you report very quickly and the money is still in the receiving account. The longer you wait, the lower the chance.

How long does a bank take to reverse a wrong transfer?

It depends on the banks and whether the receiver cooperates. Report immediately and follow up in writing.

Should I report to the EFCC?

Yes, for fraud. A police report or EFCC petition also helps your bank act.

Someone offers to recover my money for a fee. Is it real?

Almost certainly a scam. Do not pay.

Written by the askJBoss team from public information and our own research; last updated November 2026. Prices, dates and rules change — always confirm with the official source. Spotted something that has changed? Tell us in the comments.