Free · Independent · Québec and CanadaSomething feels off?
Cryptocurrency scams: learn the warning signs before you send money, and what to do, in the right order, if it has already happened.
A 4-question action plan. Nothing is saved. · I'm helping someone →
Stop everything if…
These are almost certain signs of a scam. If any of them applies to you, don't transfer anything.
- You're asked to buy or transfer crypto on someone else's behalf, using your own money.
- Someone promises guaranteed, risk-free or unusually high returns.
- You're given a deadline: “you must act today”, “your account will be frozen”.
- A supposed broker, advisor or employer asks you to open an account on a Canadian platform and send crypto somewhere else.
- A “recovery service”, “investigator” or “lawyer” contacts you to get your money back.
- You're offered a job over WhatsApp, Telegram or text, with no real interview.
- A stranger messages you on Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp, or sends a “wrong number” text.
- You're told to pay “fees”, “taxes” or a “deposit” to withdraw your gains.
- You're asked to install AnyDesk or TeamViewer, or to share your screen.
- Your “bank” or the “police” asks you to move your money to “protect” it.
Can you get your money back?
Rarely. A crypto transaction is final: it can't be cancelled, and platforms can almost never refund it. Police describe recovery as extremely rare. Has someone promised to recover your money for a fee? That's almost always another scam.
Learn about recovery scams →Spot the scam
The most common scams in Canada, explained simply.
Who to contact
All resources →Local police
Your local police service's non-emergency line