Records · International
Preserving records: your quiet, most powerful tool
How to capture messages, transactions and timelines before they disappear — without re-living every moment.
By Stonebridge Resolution · Published 4 October 2026 · Updated 4 October 2026
The short answer
Save screenshots, statements, transaction IDs and messages before they disappear, then build a one-page dated timeline and keep untouched originals in two places.
Why records matter so much
Banks, card issuers, police and regulators all make decisions based on what can be shown. A clear, dated record of what happened turns a painful story into something an institution can act on. It also protects you from having to remember details under pressure.
What to save
Save first, sort later. Scammers often delete accounts, chats and websites once they stop responding.
- Screenshots of every conversation, including usernames, profile pages and phone numbers.
- Emails with their full headers where possible, not just forwarded copies.
- Bank and card statements showing each payment, with dates and amounts.
- Crypto wallet addresses, transaction IDs (hashes) and exchange account records.
- Website addresses, app names and any documents or "contracts" you were sent.
- Receipts for gift cards, wire transfer slips or cash deposit records.
Build a simple timeline
One page is enough. Start with the date of first contact, then list each payment and each significant message in date order. Write in plain sentences. You are not proving anything to yourself — you are making it easy for someone else to understand quickly.
Keep originals untouched. Work from copies stored in two places, such as a USB drive and a private cloud folder.
Be gentle with yourself
Going back through the messages can hurt. It is fine to do it in short sessions, or to ask someone you trust to sit with you. You do not need to annotate your feelings for anyone; just the facts, in order.
Checklist
- Screenshot every conversation including usernames and profile pages
- Download bank and card statements showing each payment
- Record crypto wallet addresses and transaction hashes
- Save website addresses and any documents you were sent
- Write a one-page timeline in date order
- Store copies in two separate places
Common questions
Should I delete the messages once I have screenshots?
No. Keep originals untouched where possible; institutions may ask for them.
Do I need to include how I felt?
No. A plain factual timeline is easiest for others to act on.