Question from a reader:
I tried to purchase Manjaro on X and ended up being scammed. I was drawn in by the price. I received a driver’s license from the scammer, but I can’t tell if it’s fake or real. In this case, can I file a report with the police? Also, is there any possibility that the victim of the
scam could be charged with a crime? I regret having done something wrong, so I would appreciate any advice from anyone. Thank you.

What to Do If You Get Scammed? Legal Advice

Recently, scams on social media and online platforms have become rampant. In particular, scams related to the sale of pharmaceuticals and health products are a serious issue. I sincerely sympathize with you regarding the scam you encountered while trying to purchase “Manjaro.” This time, I will discuss in detail how someone like you, who has been scammed, can deal with the situation from a legal perspective.

The First Step When You Get Scammed

First and foremost, it is important to stay calm if you have been scammed. It is natural to feel emotional, but by remaining calm, you can prepare to take the next steps. Regarding whether you can file a report with the police, generally speaking, it is possible to file a report if you have been scammed. Determining whether the driver’s license sent by the scammer is fake or real can be difficult, but there are experts at the police who can make that determination. If you bring that driver’s license with you and explain the situation, the police will likely begin an investigation.

Points to Consider When Filing a Report

There are important points to keep in mind when filing a report. One of them is to bring specific evidence. It is advisable to organize all email correspondence, proof of payment, and the scammer’s contact information to present to the police. Additionally, it is crucial to gather as much of this material as possible. A friend of mine was also scammed while shopping online in the past. He contacted the police immediately and brought evidence, which resulted in the police taking action. Later, the scammer was caught, and some of his losses were recovered. The key is not to give up.

Responsibility of the Victim of a Scam

Now, regarding the question, “Can the victim of a scam be charged with a crime?” generally speaking, victims of scams are not charged with a crime. The scammer’s act of intentionally deceiving someone for profit does not hold the victim responsible. However, it is important to note that if the victim engages in excessively risky behavior (for example, attempting to obtain a product through clearly illegal means), there may be legal issues that arise. I myself have had an experience in the past where, out of curiosity, I searched for suspicious products online and ended up having a painful experience. At that time, I truly believed I wasn’t doing anything wrong, but upon reflection, I realize that the actions I chose were a bit risky.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Being Scammed

Getting scammed can be very disheartening. However, here are some points to keep in mind for next time to help you be more cautious. 1. Use trusted sites: When making a purchase, be sure to check reviews and ratings thoroughly. It is also important to buy from official sites. 2. Be cautious of products that are abnormally cheap: Products that are too cheap often have hidden issues. Comparing prices is also important. 3. Be creative with payment methods: Using payment methods that offer protection, such as credit cards or PayPal, can make it easier to respond in case of an issue. 4. Share information: By sharing your experience of being scammed with those around you, you may help prevent others from going through the same ordeal. I often hear stories of people around me who have been scammed, and by sharing their experiences, more people are becoming vigilant. Ultimately, information becomes power.

Conclusion

Being scammed is truly a painful experience, but there are still many things you can do. First, act calmly and file a report with the police. It is also important to think about preventive measures for next time. I sometimes reflect on how I could have been more careful back then, but I also believe that those experiences have shaped who I am today. I hope you can use this experience to become even stronger. If you have any questions, don’t forget to consult with a professional. Additionally, sharing information with others who have had similar experiences is extremely important. Your courage may help someone else. Let’s continue to live positively and not let scams defeat us!