Canadian government impostor scams

You receive a telephone call, email, text message, or a message on social media by someone alleging to be from a law enforcement agency. Scammers claim to represent agencies ranging from the local police to Canada Border Services.

These impostors tell you there is a problem that you need to resolve immediately—usually by sending them a fee. In one recent version of this scam, the impostor claims to have seized a package with your name on it. Now, they need a copy of your driver’s license and money to fix the issue. Scammers often threaten fines, arrest, or other penalties in an attempt to scare you into immediate action.

Here's the new twist! If you are hesitant, the scammers will offer to text or email doctored credentials to you, to confirm their identity. The badge is either stolen or has been edited to include a different name. But no matter how convincing the “badge” or the impostor’s story may be, always do your research before acting. If you send these scammers money, they will disappear, and you won’t be able to get it back.

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As a veteran, navigating government programs and benefits is complicated. Scammers know this – and take full advantage of it. BBB Scam Tracker has received numerous reports of con artists who pretend to represent the government and target veterans with promises of special grants and other programs. All you must do is pay a one-time processing fee, typically through a pre-paid debit card or digital wallet app, which is harder to trace.

If you pay the "processing fee," scammers will likely come up with believable reasons for you to pay a second fee and a third, all so you can get an even larger "grant." Unfortunately, the money doesn't exist, and you will lose anything you pay them forever.

Learn more about Veteran Affairs programs & services in Canada.

You receive an email or phone call from the Immigration Refugee Board (IRB) of Canada or Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) that looks or sounds official and claims that you are under investigation or owe money. The scammers are trying to either steal your money, or get personal information from you for the purposes of identity theft.

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This scam promises you free money in the form of a government grant. All you have to do is pay a fee. You are told that your application is guaranteed to be accepted, and you will never have to repay the money. You can use the "grant" to pay bills, make repairs, or pay education costs.

When you reply to the ad or take the bait on the phone, the scammer claims to be a “government agent.” The con artist congratulates you on being eligible for the grant and asks for a one-time “processing fee.” Other fees will inevitably follow, and they may all seem very official. Whatever the story, one thing is certain; you will never see the money.

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