What do I do if I get scammed online in BC?

If you’re in BC and you think you've been scammed online, act quickly. The right steps depend on the type of scam, but this general approach covers most situations.

1. Stop communicating with the scammer

Don't send more money. Don't click additional links. Stop responding to emails, texts, or phone calls. Save all emails, receipts, or messages as evidence.

2. Protect your finances

If money or financial information is involved:

• Contact your bank or credit card company immediately.
• Ask them to stop or reverse payments if possible.
• Request new cards or account numbers if they've been compromised.
• Change your online banking password.

3. Secure your accounts

If you've shared passwords or are concerned your digital accounts may be compromised:

• Change them immediately.
• Enable two-factor authentication where available.
• If you reused the password elsewhere, change it on those accounts too.

4. Collect evidence

Save all emails, receipts, or messages as evidence. Take screenshots. Document names, phone numbers, websites, and social media profiles used by the scammer.

5. Report the scam

Depending on the circumstances, report it to one or more of the following:

• Your local police if you've lost money or believe a crime has occurred.
• The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (opens in a new tab) (CAFC), which collects reports of fraud across Canada and shares intelligence with law enforcement.
• Consumer Protection BC if the issue involves a business or industry they regulate.
• The online platform where the scam occurred (Facebook Marketplace, eBay, PayPal, your bank, etc.).

6. Watch for identity theft

If you've shared personal information such as your Social Insurance Number, driver's licence, or banking information:

• Monitor your bank and credit card statements.
• Check your credit reports.
• Consider placing a fraud alert with Canada's credit bureaus if appropriate.