Welcome to the “Relatives and Friends” Section

Support for Relatives and Friends

Fraud and scams affect not only the victims but also their immediate environment in various ways. This section has been created to provide help and information to those who want to support their loved ones during such a difficult and sensitive time.

Why was this section created?
When I shared my own experiences on LinkedIn about the difficulties faced by victims of online scams, I was astonished by the overwhelming number of comments and messages. People shared their own or their loved ones’ stories, with many saying they didn’t know how to support someone who had experienced such trauma. I also personally experienced how easily people judge someone for “letting” themselves be scammed.

These responses inspired me to create this section on the website. My aim is to show not only the victims but also their families and friends how they can help without judgment or victim-blaming, and why it’s crucial for those affected to feel: they are not alone.

Why is this page important for relatives and friends?
The effects of online scams go beyond the victim; these incidents often place emotional and financial burdens on family members and friends. This page aims to show how you can truly support the affected person without judging, blaming, or unintentionally increasing the guilt they may already feel.

What can you find on this page?

• Supportive Information: Practical advice to help you provide meaningful support. Victim-blaming doesn’t help; constructive questions can have a place—but condescension and blame do not, as many victims have experienced, which often leads them to silence!
• Emotional Healing and Starting Over: Guides and ideas to support emotional recovery and looking toward the future.
• How to Help Without Judgment: The basics of judgment-free support with practical examples and tools.

Why is judgment-free support important?
Those affected often struggle with guilt and shame, which can hinder their progress toward recovery. Your understanding and supportive approach are critical to their healing process.

On this page, you’ll find expert advice, personal experiences, and stories that will help you stand by your loved ones without judgment. Through the blog, we will also introduce professionals who can further assist both the affected individuals and their families.

What can you do as a first step to help?
Remember: If someone shares their experiences with you, that’s already the first step toward healing. Give them space, let them talk, and don’t make them feel like they made a mistake—they already know! Even if you can’t actively help, listening alone can mean a lot.

Victims need significant time and energy to process everything they have been through and to reopen themselves to others. This is a deep trauma that requires understanding and support.

• Filing a Report: One of the most crucial steps is to make an official report.
• Seeking Professional Help: If necessary, work together to find a professional who can assist in the healing process. Soon, the website will list professionals you can contact for support.

This is not an issue that can be trivialized or quickly overcome. That is why we are here—to provide guidance and support to both victims and their families.

Emergency Numbers and Online Help in England
Emergency numbers and helplines in England are available to assist in emergencies and emotional distress:

• Police (general emergency and police assistance): 999 (emergency) or 101 (non-emergency)
• England Emotional Support Hotline: 116 123 (Samaritans, free, available 24/7)
• Cybersecurity Assistance: For questions related to online threats, scams, or data protection, visit Action Fraud or contact their helpline at 0300 123 2040.

Visit their website: National Cybersecurity Institute

What to do if the case is international?
If the online scam is not limited to Hungary but has international implications, it’s important to contact the appropriate international organizations for assistance. In such cases, alongside the National Cybersecurity Institute, the FBI-operated Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) can also be helpful.

The IC3 is a platform where anyone can report online crimes, particularly if the case involves other countries. The IC3 not only assists in data collection but also facilitates the forwarding of information to law enforcement agencies, ensuring effective action against perpetrators. However, to file a report on the IC3 website, a report in Hungary is required, as you’ll need to provide a case number to proceed with the process.

Visit the IC3 website: Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

Tips for international reporting:

• Provide a detailed account of the events, including dates, the content of communications, and any available evidence (e.g., emails, screenshots).
• If you have already filed reports with authorities in other countries, include this information in your complaint.
• Be patient; handling international cases can take time, but the IC3’s effective system can significantly help resolve the matter.

Remember, you are not alone!

The impacts of online scams and fraud are deep and complex, but they can be overcome with the right support and information. Whether it’s a local or international case, it’s important not to feel helpless. The information and recommended organizations provided on this site are here to help you and your loved ones.

Don’t hesitate to seek help, whether from your immediate environment, professionals, or official authorities. Every action that moves the victim closer to healing is a step toward a fuller life. Your support, understanding, and empathy can be a tremendous source of strength in such a challenging time.

If you feel you need further guidance or support, please reach out to us with confidence. We are here to help.