How to Report a Crypto Scam to the U.S. Secret Service: A Simple Phone Script

After a cryptocurrency scam, many people know they should report what happened—but aren’t sure who to call, what to say, or how formal the conversation needs to be. That uncertainty alone can make an already difficult situation feel heavier.

To help reduce that barrier, we created a simple phone script specifically for calling a local field office of the United States Secret Service to report a cryptocurrency loss.

This script is not legal language, and it’s not technical. It’s a practical guide designed to help you make that phone call with clarity and confidence.

Why Contact the U.S. Secret Service After a Crypto Scam?

The U.S. Secret Service investigates a range of financial crimes, including cyber-enabled fraud and cryptocurrency-related scams. Field offices are located throughout the United States and are accessible to the public.

Calling a field office allows you to:

• Explain what happened in your own words

• Ask how to submit information properly

• Learn what documentation may be helpful

• Receive guidance on next steps

The phone script exists to help you navigate that first conversation without feeling rushed or unprepared.

What the Phone Script Helps You Say

The script walks you through a short, structured call that includes:

• Introducing yourself and stating that you are calling to report a crypto loss

• Confirming your location and when the loss occurred

• Describing the type of scam in plain language

• Letting them know what records you have available

• Asking how to submit information and whether there is a reference number

Nothing in the script is required to be said word-for-word. It’s there to support you, not to test you.

Woman holding a phone while preparing to report a cryptocurrency scam to law enforcement.

You Don’t Need to Be an Expert to Make the Call

One of the most common concerns we hear is, “I don’t understand crypto well enough to call law enforcement.” That’s understandable—and it’s not a requirement.

When calling the U.S. Secret Service, it’s okay to:

• Pause or ask for clarification

• Say you’re unsure about certain details

• Follow up later with additional information

Your role is to report what happened and share what you have. Understanding blockchain mechanics is not expected.

A Script You Can Keep to Report the Crypto Scam to Secret Service

Because phone calls can feel stressful, we also created a printable handout version of the script. Many people find it helpful to:

• Have the script in front of them during the call

• Write down a reference number or agent name

• Share the handout with a spouse or trusted support person

This keeps the focus on the conversation rather than remembering what to say next.

For the printable phone script click here.

How Go-Crypto Supports This Step

At Go-Crypto, our work centers on helping people make sense of what happened after a cryptocurrency loss and prepare for next steps, including reporting.

That support may include:

• Helping organize transaction records

• Explaining on-chain activity in plain language

• Preparing information before calling the U.S. Secret Service or other agencies

The phone script is one small part of that approach: practical tools designed to reduce friction and make difficult steps feel more manageable.

If you’re navigating a crypto loss, it’s okay to move at your own pace. Having clear guidance—and knowing who to call—can make a meaningful difference.

Go-Crypto provides education and investigative support for individuals affected by cryptocurrency scams and works with victims, attorneys, and law enforcement to help document losses and prevent future harm.

Educating. Investigating. Protecting Digital Assets.

 Visit us at https://www.go-crypto.org