There is an upward trend in fraud involving fake cryptocurrency investments, which currently targets individuals through online and social media advertisements.
These scams often begin when someone signs up on what appears to be a legitimate investment website. Shortly afterward, a so-called “broker” or “advisor” contacts the individual by phone, WhatsApp, Telegram, or another private platform, offering help with account setup or cryptocurrency trading.
While some of these schemes direct members to send e-Transfers to legitimate addresses (for example, etransfer.payper@crypto.com or compliance-emails@questrade.com), the funds are not being deposited into the member’s own account. Instead, they are directed to accounts controlled by fraudsters.
Please remember:
- Legitimate platforms such as Questrade and Crypto.com do not assign personal brokers or contact clients through messaging apps.
- You should never be asked to send an Interac e-Transfer to fund a crypto wallet at someone else’s direction.
- Being told that you must deposit more funds before withdrawing, or that “taxes” or “fees” must be paid in advance, is a major red flag.
- Videos generated through artificial intelligence and featuring public figures such as Mark Carney or Ryan Reynolds are being used to promote these fraudulent offers. These videos are fabricated and not endorsed by any real financial institution.
If you have sent money or are being asked to send additional funds:
- Stop all transfers immediately.
- Contact your financial institution as soon as possible to request cancellation or recall of any recent e-Transfers.
- Report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or 1-888-495-8501.
- If the request references Crypto.com or Questrade or another platform, you can also reach out to their official support teams to confirm whether any account is registered in your name.
If you have any questions or would like guidance, please contact us directly. We will do our best to assist you and help ensure your funds and personal information remain secure.
Contact:
One of our branch locations
or
Caisse Alliance’s Fraud Department
1-888-404-2246.