You downloaded an app that seemed legitimate, linked your MoneyLion account, and then discovered unauthorized charges draining your balance. App scams targeting fintech accounts like MoneyLion are increasingly common because these platforms often have fewer fraud protections than traditional banks.
Here is how to fight back and recover your money.
Step 1: Secure Your Account Immediately
Before filing disputes:
- Change your MoneyLion password and enable two-factor authentication
- Revoke access to any third-party apps connected to your account
- Check all recent transactions and note every unauthorized charge
- Screenshot everything — transaction history, app permissions, the scam app's listing
Step 2: Contact MoneyLion Support
- In-app support: Use the MoneyLion app's help section
- Phone: Call MoneyLion customer support
- Email: Document your dispute in writing
When you contact them:
- List every unauthorized transaction with dates and amounts
- Explain that the charges were fraudulent
- Request a full reversal of all unauthorized charges
- Ask for a case number and escalation timeline
Step 3: File a Dispute Under Federal Law
If MoneyLion's initial response is insufficient, you have rights under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA):
- Report within 2 business days — your liability is limited to $50
- Report within 60 days — liability limited to $500
- Beyond 60 days — you may be liable for the full amount
File a formal written dispute with MoneyLion citing the EFTA and Regulation E protections.
Step 4: Escalate to Regulators
If MoneyLion does not resolve your dispute:
- File with the CFPB at consumerfinance.gov/complaint — MoneyLion must respond
- File with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- File a police report — needed for some dispute processes
- Contact your state AG — consumer protection division
Step 5: Prevent Future Scams
- Never link your primary bank account to unknown apps
- Research any app before granting financial access
- Use virtual card numbers when possible
- Monitor your accounts weekly
- Set up transaction alerts
Quick Checklist
- [ ] Change passwords and revoke third-party app access
- [ ] Document all unauthorized transactions with screenshots
- [ ] Contact MoneyLion support and file a dispute
- [ ] File a formal written dispute citing EFTA protections
- [ ] File with the CFPB if not resolved within 10 business days
- [ ] File a police report for documentation
- [ ] Set up account monitoring and alerts
Bottom Line
App scams targeting fintech accounts are on the rise, but federal law protects you. Act fast — the sooner you report, the lower your liability. File with MoneyLion, escalate to the CFPB, and document everything.
If navigating MoneyLion's support system and filing regulatory complaints feels overwhelming after being scammed, an AI assistant can handle the dispute process — contacting MoneyLion, filing the right paperwork, and following up until your money is recovered.
