How to Interview a Victim of an Internet Scam: A Compassionate Approach

April 26, 2025

When someone falls for an internet scam, the emotional fallout can be just as damaging as the financial loss. Shame, anger, fear, and grief often swirl together, making it hard for victims to talk about what happened. If you're interviewing a scam victim—whether for journalism, a case study, a research project, or helping them report it—it’s crucial to approach the conversation with care.

Here’s how to do it thoughtfully and effectively.

1. Set the Right Tone from the Start

Before you even ask your first question, make it clear that the purpose of the interview is supportive, not judgmental. A victim who feels blamed or interrogated will likely shut down or leave out important details.

You can say something like:
"I'm here to listen to your story, not to judge. Your experience can help others stay safe, and it’s important that your voice is heard."

2. Create a Safe and Private Environment

Privacy is key. Victims often feel embarrassed, and the fear of others overhearing—or the conversation being mishandled—can intensify that.

• Conduct the interview in a quiet, confidential space.
• Let them know who will have access to their information.
• Offer the option to remain anonymous if appropriate.

3. Start with Open-Ended, Non-Threatening Questions

Rather than jumping into specifics like "How much money did you lose?" begin with gentle, open-ended questions:

• "Can you walk me through how you first encountered the scam?"
• "What made the situation seem trustworthy at the time?"
• "What were you feeling when you realized something was wrong?"

These types of questions give the victim control over how much detail they share at first, and allow them to warm up to harder topics.

4. Listen More Than You Speak

Resist the urge to immediately analyze, correct, or even comfort during their initial story. Your main job is to listen fully, validate their emotions, and follow their lead.

Simple affirmations like “That sounds really upsetting” or “It makes sense you would feel that way” can go a long way toward helping them feel safe enough to continue.

5. Avoid Blame Language

Phrases like "Why did you click on that?" or "How could you not realize it was fake?" are incredibly harmful. Even well-intentioned comments like "It could happen to anyone" can sometimes minimize their unique experience.

Instead, frame questions around the scammer's actions, not the victim's decisions:

• "What did they tell you then?"
• "Were there any pressures or threats made?"
• "What made the situation feel urgent or believable?"

This shifts focus onto the manipulation techniques used, not the victim's "mistakes."

6. Clarify, But Gently

If you need more detail, be gentle. Say things like:

• "Just so I understand clearly, was that before or after they asked you to transfer the money?"
• "When they talked about the prize, did they say you had to act quickly?"

Avoid pushing for more than they're ready to share.

7. End on Empowerment

Always leave victims with a sense of empowerment and dignity. Remind them that:

• They are not alone—millions of people are scammed each year.
• Their story can help others.
• Reporting scams (even anonymously) can stop future fraud.

If appropriate, provide them with follow-up resources: scam reporting sites, support hotlines, financial recovery services, or mental health counseling options.

In Short:
Interviewing a scam victim isn't just about gathering facts—it's about restoring trust, dignity, and agency. Handle the conversation with patience, empathy, and respect, and you’ll not only get a fuller picture of what happened, but you’ll also be part of their healing journey.