How to Report Cyber Crime in the USA (Step-by-Step Guide – 2026)

December 31, 2025

Cyber crime continues to rise across the United States as more activities move online. Incidents such as online fraud, identity theft, phishing scams, and hacking affect individuals and businesses every year. Many people are unsure where to report cyber crime or what steps to follow. This guide explains how to report cyber crime in the USA, based on official procedures that remain accurate and relevant in 2026.

What Is Considered Cyber Crime in the USA?

Cyber crime refers to illegal activities carried out using computers, mobile devices, or the internet. Common examples include:

Online scams and fraud
Identity theft
Phishing emails and fake websites
Social media account hacking
Credit card or payment fraud
Business email compromise (BEC)

Both individuals and organizations can be victims of cyber crime.

Where to Report Cyber Crime in the USA

In the United States, cyber crimes should be reported through official government and law enforcement channels, depending on the nature of the incident.

FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) remains the primary platform for reporting cyber crime nationwide in 2026.

Used for online fraud, scams, hacking, and identity theft
Accessible to the public
Reports are shared with appropriate law enforcement agencies

Submitting a complaint to IC3 ensures the incident is officially recorded.

Local Police Department

Victims may also file a report with their local police department, especially if:

There is financial loss
Identity theft is involved
Documentation is required for legal or insurance purposes

Banks and Financial Institutions

If cyber crime involves:

Bank accounts
Credit or debit cards
Online payment services

You should immediately notify your bank or financial provider so they can limit further damage.

Step-by-Step Process to Report Cyber Crime

Following the correct steps helps ensure your complaint is properly reviewed.

Step 1: Gather Evidence

Before filing a report, collect all available information, including:

Screenshots of messages or emails
Transaction records or payment confirmations
Website links involved in the incident
Dates and times of suspicious activity

Step 2: Use an Official Reporting Platform

Access the official cyber crime reporting system used by US authorities. This platform continues to operate nationwide in 2026.

Step 3: Complete the Complaint Form

Provide clear and accurate details, such as:

Type of cyber crime
Description of what happened
Estimated financial loss (if any)
Contact information

Accuracy helps investigators assess the case more effectively.

Step 4: Submit and Save Confirmation Details

After submitting the complaint:

A confirmation or reference number is issued
Keep this information for future follow-ups

This confirms that your report has been officially logged.

What Happens After You Report Cyber Crime?

After submission:

Authorities review the information
Cases may be forwarded to local, state, or federal agencies
Investigations depend on the severity and scope of the crime

Not every report leads to immediate action, but each complaint helps identify patterns and prevent future cyber crimes.

Can Cyber Crime Be Reported Anonymously?

In many cases, reports can be submitted without public disclosure of personal identity. However, providing contact details may help investigators request additional information if needed.

How Long Does a Cyber Crime Investigation Take?

There is no fixed timeline. Investigations may take:

Several weeks
Months
Longer for complex or large-scale cases

The duration depends on evidence, jurisdiction, and case complexity.

Tips to Stay Safe from Cyber Crime (2026)

Experts continue to recommend the following preventive measures in 2026:

Use strong, unique passwords
Enable two-factor authentication
Avoid clicking unknown or suspicious links
Verify emails before sharing personal information
Keep devices and software updated

Prevention remains the most effective defense against cyber crime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is reporting cyber crime in the USA free?

Yes. Filing a report through official channels does not involve any fees.

Can businesses report cyber crime?

Yes. Businesses can submit reports, especially for fraud, data breaches, or financial crimes.

Does reporting guarantee money recovery?

Reporting does not guarantee recovery, but it improves the chances of investigation and prevention.