Frequently Asked Questions

Consumer protection

Introduction to consumer protection

Western Union values its business and takes pride in delivering your funds in the quickest and most reliable way possible. However, it is important that you protect yourself from fraudsters who are out to get your money. Below are some frequently asked questions about fraud. For more information, please visit the Fraud Awareness section here.

Are there common fraud scenarios that I should be aware of and things I shouldn’t send my money for?

Yes. Only use Western Union to send money to friends and family. Never send money to someone you have not met in person. Scammers sometimes encourage people to transfer money. Do not transfer money to anyone who asks you to send them money:

  • For an emergency situation you haven’t confirmed
  • For an online purchase
  • For anti‐virus protection
  • For a deposit or payment on a rental property
  • To claim lottery or prize winnings
  • To pay taxes
  • For a donation to charity
  • For a mystery shopping assignment
  • For a job opportunity
  • For a credit card or loan fee
  • To resolve an immigration matter

If you transfer money, the person you’re sending it to gets the money quickly. After the money is paid, Western Union may not be able to give you a refund, even if you are the victim of fraud, except under limited circumstances.

Someone claiming to be from Western Union emailed me. What should I do?

If you receive an email from anyone claiming to be from Western Union and you are unsure about it, do not click on any links in the mail. This may be a phishing attempt to acquire sensitive information from you. Instead, immediately forward the suspicious mail to wu-indiacsc@westernunion.com Western Union will never send you e-mails to ask for your user ID, password, or credit card details.

What can I do if I suspect fraud or am a victim of fraud?

You should contact the Western Union Fraud Hotline at 1-800-102-7111 immediately for assistance with a transaction that you believe was sent for fraud. You should also file a report with your local law enforcement. You should also contact your government’s Office of Consumer Affairs and police station if you are uncertain or suspicious of a telephone, mail, or e-mail solicitation.

What additional tips should I keep in mind?

  • Always make sure you know who you are sending money to.
  • Discontinue a call if a caller coaches you to respond to questions asked by Western Union.
  • Security is everyone’s responsibility. Stay informed. Keep abreast of new fraud trends.
  • Remember, if it seems too-good-to-be-true, it probably is.
  • Get more information about how to protect yourself from fraud.