How to recover money from online fraudsters: a step-by-step algorithm

Recovering money from online fraudsters is realistic – but the outcome depends on how fast you act and on choosing the right protection mechanism. Attorney Vitalii Petryk explains what to do and in what order to maximise the chances of compensation.

Key points

• The first 24-48 hours are critical: a bank transfer can still be stopped before final settlement.
• Contact the bank (chargeback or block), record the evidence and file a police report at the same time.
• Online fraud is classified under Article 190 of the Criminal Code (fraud) or Article 361 (interference with computer systems), depending on the method.
• Notarised screenshots and printouts carry greater evidential weight in court.
• Recovery through the courts is possible even where the fraudster is unknown: a claim against the receiving bank or enforcement proceedings.

Step 1. Preserve and record the evidence

The first thing to do after discovering the fraud is to record everything available while the evidence still exists.

• Take screenshots of the correspondence, the fraudsters website, their payment details and receipts.
• Save all emails, SMS and messenger messages.
• Note the date, time and amount of every transfer.
• Record the recipient details: IBAN, card number, e-wallet, payment platform.
• Where possible have the screenshots notarised: certified materials carry greater weight in court.

Step 2. Stop the payment immediately

The sooner you contact the bank, the better the chances of stopping the transaction – some transfers can still be halted before final settlement.

Bank transfer: call the bank the same day. If the transaction is still processing, it can be cancelled. If the funds have arrived, file a dispute or chargeback request (for card transactions the window is usually 60-120 days depending on the bank and payment system).

E-wallets and payment services: contact the platform support service demanding that the payout be frozen and provide evidence of the fraud. Most legitimate platforms have dispute resolution procedures.

Step 3. Report to the police

Filing a report with the National Police is essential – without criminal proceedings recovery through the courts becomes considerably harder.

• The report can be filed online through the National Police website or directly at a police station.
• Attach all recorded evidence: screenshots, statements, correspondence.
• After registration you will receive an extract from the Unified Register of Pre-trial Investigations – keep this document, it is needed for banking procedures and for court.
• For internet fraud the police have a specialised unit, the cyber police (cyberpolice.gov.ua).

Step 4. Civil claim and recovery through the courts

Criminal proceedings and a civil claim do not exclude each other – you may claim damages in parallel or within the criminal case (a civil claim in criminal proceedings).

• Claim in criminal proceedings (Article 128 CPC): filed before the end of the trial, exempt from court fees.
• Separate civil claim: if the fraudster has been identified, you may claim damages before a general court (Article 1166 of the Civil Code).
• Claim against the receiving bank: if the bank processed the operation without proper checks, it may be liable under payment services legislation.

Which mistakes reduce the chances of recovery?

• Delay in contacting the bank: once the transaction is confirmed, the window for stopping it closes.
• Deleting correspondence or cleaning up the phone: destroyed evidence cannot be restored.
• Trying to negotiate with the fraudsters yourself without legal support.
• Refusing to file a police report on the assumption that it will achieve nothing: criminal proceedings open access to investigative measures and provide grounds for securing a claim.

Frequently asked questions

Is it realistic to get money back if the fraudster is unknown?

Yes, in a number of cases. The police identify the person through bank accounts and payment services. In parallel a claim against the receiving bank is possible if it breached customer verification procedures.

What is the limitation period in fraud cases?

Under the Civil Code the general limitation period is 3 years from the moment the person learned or should have learned of the infringement (Articles 257, 261). Still, do not delay: evidence deteriorates over time.

Can I claim compensation for moral damage?

Yes, if the fraud and the causal link with the suffering are proved. The amount is determined by the court in light of the circumstances.

What if the fraudster is abroad?

Contact the police and a lawyer in parallel: cases with a foreign element use international cooperation mechanisms (Interpol, mutual legal assistance requests). It is harder, but not hopeless.

What is the difference between a criminal report and a civil claim?

A criminal report triggers an investigation by the state and you are the victim. A civil claim you bring yourself and you prove your case. These mechanisms can and should be combined.

Fallen victim to online fraud and want your money back?

Attorney Vitalii Petryk provides legal assistance in fraud and cybercrime cases and in the recovery of losses.

• Phone: +38 (096) 878-07-36
• Email: info@advokat-petrik.com
• Address: Kyiv, Holosiivskyi Avenue 132, RELE Business Centre

This article is informational and is not legal advice. To assess your specific situation, contact an attorney.