Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

About FCEN

Q1: What is FCEN?
A1: FCEN is a global nonprofit organization that assists victims of online scams and fraud by supporting recovery efforts, offering compensation, and helping rebuild financial stability.

Q2: Where is FCEN based?
A2: We began in the United Kingdom and have expanded our operations across Africa and internationally to support victims worldwide.

Q3: Who does FCEN help?
A3: We help individuals, families, and businesses who have been victims of online fraud, scams, or deceitful financial schemes.

Q4: Are you a government agency?
A4: No. FCEN is a nonprofit NGO. However, we collaborate with regulators, law enforcement, and financial institutions to assist victims.

Q5: Do you only help in Africa?
A5: No. We assist victims globally, regardless of location.


Funds Recovery

Q6: How does the funds recovery process work?
A6: We collect evidence, assess the fraud, and then take steps to recover funds through banks, regulators, and legal channels.

Q7: Is funds recovery guaranteed?
A7: No. We cannot guarantee recovery, but we work diligently to maximize the chances of reclaiming your money.

Q8: How long does recovery take?
A8: Timelines vary — some cases resolve in weeks, others may take months depending on complexity and cooperation from banks/regulators.

Q9: What evidence do I need to provide?
A9: Proof of payment, transaction receipts, bank statements, emails, messages, and any communication with the scammer.

Q10: Can I still get help if I don’t have evidence?
A10: Yes, but the chances of recovery increase significantly when evidence is provided.

Q11: Do you charge victims for recovery?
A11: We do not demand upfront fees. Our mission is to support victims, not exploit them further.

Q12: Do you work with banks?
A12: Yes, we collaborate with local and international banks to freeze, trace, and recover fraudulent transactions.

Q13: Do you involve the police?
A13: In many cases, yes. We help victims report scams to law enforcement as part of the recovery process.

Q14: Can FCEN recover cryptocurrency losses?
A14: Yes, in some cases, depending on traceability and blockchain evidence.

Q15: What if the scammer is outside my country?
A15: We have international partnerships, and our network extends across borders, so we can often help.


Compensation Program

Q16: What is the Compensation Program?
A16: A program that provides financial assistance of up to $100,000 USD to verified victims of fraud.

Q17: Who is eligible for compensation?
A17: Victims who can prove they were scammed and have submitted required details for assessment.

Q18: Do you pay compensation upfront?
A18: No. We payout only after verifying that the client has truly been duped.

Q19: How is compensation amount decided?
A19: Based on the severity of the loss, the evidence provided, and the impact on the victim’s livelihood or business.

Q20: Is compensation guaranteed for everyone?
A20: No. Each case is individually reviewed, and payouts depend on eligibility and available resources.

Q21: How long does compensation approval take?
A21: Between 2–6 weeks after submission and verification of documents.

Q22: Is compensation a loan?
A22: No. It is financial assistance, not a debt.

Q23: Do you compensate partial losses?
A23: Yes, depending on the case review, we may cover full or partial amounts.

Q24: Can businesses apply for compensation?
A24: Yes. Both individuals and businesses are eligible.

Q25: Can someone receive both recovery and compensation?
A25: Yes, in some cases, victims may benefit from both programs.


Verification & Security

Q26: Why do you need my ID?
A26: To confirm your identity and prevent fraudulent claims.

Q27: How do you keep my data safe?
A27: All information is encrypted, stored securely, and never shared with unauthorized parties.

Q28: Can scammers abuse the compensation program?
A28: No. Every case undergoes strict verification before payout.

Q29: What happens if I fake my claim?
A29: False claims are rejected, and may be reported to authorities.

Q30: Do you require sensitive banking information?
A30: Only when necessary to verify transactions — and only through secure channels.

Q31: Is my information shared with third parties?
A31: Only with banks, regulators, or law enforcement directly involved in your case.

Q32: Can I remain anonymous?
A32: While we keep your case confidential, certain information is required to verify legitimacy.

Q33: What if I lost money years ago?
A33: We still review old cases, though recovery chances may be lower.

Q34: Can multiple victims of the same scam apply?
A34: Yes. Group claims are possible.

Q35: What documents must I attach?
A35: ID copy, proof of loss, communication records, and any supporting evidence.


Eligibility

Q36: Do you only help online fraud victims?
A36: No. We also assist victims of offline scams, business fraud, and other forms of deception.

Q37: Can anyone apply?
A37: Yes, as long as you have been a genuine victim of fraud.

Q38: Is there an age restriction?
A38: Applicants must be 18+ or have a legal guardian submit on their behalf.

Q39: Do you help only English speakers?
A39: No. We work with translators and partners to support multiple languages.

Q40: Can I apply if I live outside Africa or the UK?
A40: Yes. We accept international applications.

Q41: Do you help victims of romance scams?
A41: Yes, romance fraud is one of the cases we handle.

Q42: Do you assist victims of investment scams?
A42: Absolutely. Investment fraud is a major part of our work.

Q43: Can students apply?
A43: Yes, students scammed online are also eligible.

Q44: Do you help with job offer scams?
A44: Yes. We assist with fake job scams and employment-related fraud.

Q45: Do you help victims of identity theft?
A45: Yes, and we also help protect victims from further misuse.


Process & Communication

Q46: How do I contact FCEN?
A46: Through our website Contact Page, email, or phone.

Q47: How soon will I get a response?
A47: Within 24–48 hours of your submission.

Q48: Can I meet someone in person?
A48: Yes, depending on location. We also offer virtual consultations.

Q49: Do I need a lawyer?
A49: Not necessarily. Our team includes legal experts who guide you.

Q50: How do I know if my application was received?
A50: You’ll receive a confirmation email with your case number.

Q51: Can I track my case?
A51: Yes, we provide status updates as your case progresses.

Q52: Do you work weekends?
A52: We operate Monday–Saturday, with emergency support for urgent cases.

Q53: Will I be updated regularly?
A53: Yes, we believe in transparent, ongoing communication.

Q54: Can someone else apply on my behalf?
A54: Yes, if they are legally authorized.

Q55: What languages do you support?
A55: English, French, Arabic, Zulu, Swahili, and more through partners.


Costs & Payments

Q56: Do I need to pay FCEN?
A56: No upfront fees are required. Some recovery cases may involve administrative costs, which are clearly explained.

Q57: Does compensation cost me anything?
A57: No. Compensation is support, not a loan or repayment scheme.

Q58: Who funds the compensation program?
A58: Through donors, partners, and international support.

Q59: Will you ever ask for money before payout?
A59: No. We never demand money before confirming recovery or compensation.

Q60: Do you take a percentage of recovered funds?
A60: In some recovery cases, yes — but only after successful recovery, never before.

Q61: What payment methods do you use?
A61: Bank transfer, verified mobile money platforms, or secure financial institutions.

Q62: Do you send payments in cash?
A62: No. All payouts are digital and secure.

Q63: Can compensation be sent internationally?
A63: Yes, through global banking partners.

Q64: How do I know payouts are real?
A64: Every transaction comes with official documentation and proof of transfer.

Q65: What currency do you pay in?
A65: Primarily USD, but local currency equivalents may be arranged.


General Support

Q66: What makes FCEN different from others?
A66: We combine recovery, compensation, education, and compassion into one holistic support system.

Q67: How can I support FCEN’s work?
A67: Through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness of fraud prevention.

Q68: What should I do right now if I’ve been scammed?
A68: Contact us immediately. The sooner we act, the higher the chances of recovery and support.

Scroll to Top