How to track down someone who scammed you?

How can I effectively track down someone who has scammed me? What steps should I take to initiate an investigation? Are there any specific platforms or tools that can assist me in this process? Should I contact the authorities immediately, or is there a certain order in which I should proceed? Additionally, what information do I need to gather to ensure a successful investigation? Is there a chance of retrieving my lost funds, and if so, what are the chances? Finally, how can I prevent such scams in the future and protect myself from becoming a victim again?