Fake platform support
A story
Julie, 34, gets an email: “Withdrawal of $1,200 requested from a new device. If this wasn't you, call immediately.” She doesn't recognize any of it. Heart pounding, she searches Google for her platform's support number. The first result — an ad — shows a number. She calls.
“Kevin” answers in a calm voice. He confirms the account is compromised. “To protect your funds we need to move them to a temporary protection wallet. I'm sending you a code, read it back to me.” Julie reads the code she got by text. Then he asks her to share her screen “to follow the operation”.
Forty minutes later she opens her real app. The balance is zero. The fake email, the fake number and the fake Kevin were one single operation.
A fictional story inspired by real cases. Names and details are invented.
How it works
How it starts
An email or text reports suspicious activity, or you're looking for help with a login problem.
Fake number
Fraudulent “support” numbers appear in ads, online listings and on social media. Several platforms offer no phone support at all.
Requests
The fake agent says your account is compromised. They ask for a verification code, screen sharing, an app installation, or the transfer of your funds to a “secure wallet”.
Transfer
With that access, funds are moved within minutes. Crypto transfers can't be reversed.
The warning signs
- A support number found on Google, social media or in a text
- A request for a verification code received by text or email
- A request to share your screen or install an app
- A request to move your funds to “secure” them
- A message telling you to call a number instead of opening the app
If it happens to you
- Hang up and contact the platform only through its official app or website.
- Change your password and turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) with an authenticator app or security key.
- Ask the platform to lock the account.
- Report the fake number or site to the platform and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- Call your bank if banking information was shared.
Official contacts → · Your platform's help page →
Have you already sent money?
Don't send anything else, even to “unlock” your funds. Here's how to protect what's left and report the fraud.
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