In danger right now? Call 911. Scam Pause is not an emergency service.
What happened?
Or try an example (all made up):
The warning signs
Where it found them
Take ten minutes
Real problems can wait ten minutes. Scams can't, which is why they rush you. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre suggests hanging up and waiting ten minutes, or using another phone, before calling your bank back.
10:00
Ask someone you trust
A second person breaks the spell. This message leaves out links, codes and card numbers, so it is safe to forward. Their name and number are saved only on this device.
If you already sent money or a code
Act now. Minutes matter, and it is not your fault. Scammers are professionals.
- Call your bank using the number on the back of your card. Tell them it was fraud and ask them to stop or recall the payment. If you shared a code or password, ask them to lock your accounts.
- Gift cards: call the number on the back of the card right away. Keep the cards and receipts.
- Crypto: contact the exchange or ATM operator. It is hard to reverse, so report it quickly.
- Gave remote access? Disconnect from the internet and have the device checked. Change your passwords from another device.
- Report it to your local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
- Watch for a second scam: anyone who offers to recover the money for a fee is a scammer too.
Numbers to use instead of theirs
Never use a phone number or link that came in the message or call. Caller ID and sender names can be faked.