What do you do when someone randomly sends you money?

Answered by Robert Flynn

When you find yourself in a situation where someone randomly sends you money, it is important to take prompt action to rectify the situation. Here are the steps you can take:

1. Ask the sender to cancel the transaction: Reach out to the person who sent you the money and politely ask them to cancel the transaction. Explain that the money was sent to you by mistake or that you do not know the sender. In many cases, the sender can contact the app’s customer support or their bank to initiate the cancellation process.

2. Contact app’s customer support: If the sender refuses to cancel the transaction or you are unable to reach them, it’s time to contact the app’s customer support yourself. Look for the customer support contact details within the app or on their website. Explain the situation clearly and provide any relevant information they may require, such as transaction details or screenshots. Request them to reverse the transaction and provide any necessary assistance.

3. Be persistent: Sometimes, resolving such issues may require persistence. If the initial customer support representative is unable to help or is unresponsive, don’t hesitate to follow up or escalate the issue to a higher level of support. Keep records of your communication with the app’s customer support, including names, dates, and any reference numbers they provide.

4. Monitor your account: While you are in the process of resolving the issue, keep a close eye on your account. Ensure that the erroneous transaction does not cause any further complications or unauthorized activity. If you notice any suspicious or unauthorized transactions, report them immediately to your bank or the app’s customer support.

5. Be prepared to return the funds: In some cases, the app’s customer support may inform you that the sender cannot cancel the transaction or reverse it. They may advise you to return the money to the sender. If this happens, exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of the request. If you are unsure, contact the app’s customer support again to confirm the instructions.

6. Learn from the experience: While it can be an inconvenience to deal with such situations, take it as an opportunity to learn and protect yourself in the future. Review the security settings of the app you are using and ensure that your personal information is secure. Stay vigilant and be cautious when sharing financial information or accepting money from unknown sources.

Remember, each situation may vary, and the steps outlined above may not be applicable in every case. It is always recommended to follow the specific instructions provided by the app’s customer support or your bank.