Peer-to-peer (P2P) exchanges are supposed to make buying and selling currencies easier and more direct — but unfortunately, scams can happen, especially to those new to the system. I recently fell victim to a scam while trying to buy dollars on a P2P platform, and it has left me confused, upset, and financially shaken. If you’ve been through something similar, here’s what I’ve learned and what you should do next:



Don’t Panic — Document Everything

As soon as you realize you’ve been scammed, gather all the evidence:


  • Screenshots of the chat or transaction

  • Proof of payment (bank receipts, wallet addresses, etc.)

  • Profile details of the scammer


This will be crucial if you plan to report the incident or try to recover your funds.

Report to the Platform ImmediatelY

Most P2P exchanges (like Binance, Paxful, etc.) have a dispute or support system:

  • Open a support ticket or dispute.

  • Submit all your evidence.


  • Be clear, calm, and honest in your explanation.


In some cases, if the funds are still held in escrow, the platform can reverse the transaction in your favor.


Contact Your Bank or Payment Provider


If you used a bank transfer, UPI, or any other financial service to send money, report the scam to them immediately. In rare cases, they might be able to reverse the transaction or flag the account used by the scammer.


File a Police Complaint

If the amount lost is significant, it’s worth filing a cybercrime complaint. You can do this through:

  • Your local police station


  • Online at your country’s cybercrime portal


This also helps build a case in case the scammer targets others.


Learn from the Experience


Scams are painful but also powerful teachers. Here’s what I’ll do differently next time:


  • Use verified traders with strong reputations and reviews.

  • Never release funds before confirming the transaction securely.

  • Double-check profiles and trading history.

  • Only use trusted platforms that offer escrow protection.


Take Care of Your Emotions




Losing money to a scam hurts emotionally too. Don’t blame yourself too much. Many smart people have fallen for scams — it doesn’t mean you’re foolish. What matters now is how you recover and protect yourself in the future.





Final Thoughts:


Getting scammed is painful, but it’s not the end of your financial journey. Report it, learn from it, and rebuild with more caution and knowledge. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed — talk to someone. You’re not alone. 💔