RECOVER WHAT’S YOURS — How to Collect Evidence to Recover Money from Bank Impersonation Scams
At R23 Law Firm, we’ve helped countless clients in California fight back after losing money to scammers impersonating bank staff. Whether you were tricked into sending money yourself—commonly known as Authorized Push Payment (APP) fraud—or money was taken without your consent through unauthorized transactions, recovery is possible. But the key to winning your case lies in strong, well-documented evidence.
This guide explains exactly what evidence to collect and how to organize it so you can build the strongest possible claim, whether you’re dealing with APP fraud or an unauthorized transaction.
Why Evidence Matters
To recover your money, you’ll need to prove that:
The bank failed to protect you (e.g., ignored fraud warning signs), or
The transaction was unauthorized and occurred without your consent.
In APP fraud cases, where you clicked “send,” evidence can show that you were misled or vulnerable, grounds that may qualify you for refunds under California consumer protection laws or policies like Zelle’s imposter scam reimbursement. In unauthorized transaction cases, evidence helps you secure refunds under federal law (Regulation E).
Step-by-Step: How to Collect the Right Evidence
If You Were Tricked Into Sending Money (APP Fraud)
1. Scammer Communications
Save all texts, emails, and voicemails.
Take screenshots of the caller ID or number—even if spoofed.
Write a timeline: What was said? What did you do next? Include dates and times.
If the scam is ongoing, consider recording future calls (with the scammer’s consent—required in California).
2. Bank Transaction Records
Get statements showing the payment: date, amount, and recipient details.
Save screenshots or receipts from your banking app.
Take note of any fraud warnings from your bank (pop-ups, texts, or alerts).
3. Your Actions and Vulnerability
Document whether you shared passwords or one-time codes.
Note if you tried to verify the call (e.g., contacted the bank directly).
Mention if you’re considered a vulnerable client (e.g., elderly, limited English, medical issues)—California law may offer additional protections.
4. Bank’s Response
Record when you reported the fraud and what the bank said in response.
Save any letters, emails, or phone call summaries.
Note the bank’s reasons if they denied your claim (e.g., “client authorized transaction”).
5. External Reports
File a report with the FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
File a police report and save the case number.
Submit a complaint to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and keep all correspondence.
If Your Money Was Stolen Without Consent (Unauthorized Transactions)
1. Bank Transaction Records
Get bank statements showing unauthorized charges.
Save alerts or messages about suspicious activity.
Note when you first discovered the issue.
2. Account Security Evidence
Note if your login was compromised (phishing, malware, etc.).
Take screenshots of suspicious logins or device alerts.
Mention if two-factor authentication (2FA) was active—this can support your case.
3. Bank’s Response
Record your communication with the bank: when and how you reported it.
Save all letters, emails, or statements.
If the refund was denied, document the bank’s explanation.
4. External Reports
File a report with the FTC and keep the confirmation.
Report to your local police.
Submit a CFPB complaint if necessary.
5. Additional Evidence
If malware or a data breach is suspected, save antivirus scans or IT reports.
Include any warnings from your bank prior to the fraud.
How to Organize Your Evidence
Keeping your evidence organized will make your case stronger and faster to review.
Create a timeline: List events in order—who said what, when, and what you did.
Use digital folders: Label folders clearly (e.g., “Bank,” “Scammer,” “Reports”).
Print important items: Keep hard copies of statements, police reports, and emails.
Focus on relevance: More is not always better. Include only facts that support your case.
Submit Your Evidence to R23 Law Firm
Once your evidence is ready, contact us immediately. Here’s how:
Submit online: Visit www.r23law.com to upload your documents securely.
Prefer to talk? Call us at (888)533-2948 for personalized instructions.
Our attorneys will review your materials and determine if you qualify for:
Bank refunds under Regulation E,
Compensation under California consumer protection laws, or
Zelle or payment platform reimbursements.
Why R23 Law?
R23 Law focuses on helping everyday people recover money lost to scams and unauthorized banking activity. Based in Los Angeles, we serve clients throughout California with:
Deep knowledge of banking law and fraud protections.
A record of fighting for victims like you, especially seniors, immigrants, and vulnerable clients.
Contact R23 Law Firm Today
Don’t let scammers win. Contact R23 Law Firm today:
Phone: 888-533-2948
Email: info@r23law.com
An attorney will contact you after reviewing your case. We’re here to help you fight back.
Act Now — Time Is Critical
For unauthorized transactions, you must notify your bank within 60 days of the statement showing the transaction to qualify under Regulation E.
For APP fraud, fast reporting improves your chance of recovery.
The sooner you act, the better. Let R23 Law help you reclaim your money.
Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. Contact R23 Law for a personalized assessment.
