Reporting Romance Fraud in Canada
If you or someone you know has been affected by romance fraud in Canada, it’s crucial to report the incident and seek support. Here’s how:
Report the Fraud
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) The CAFC is Canada’s central agency for collecting information on fraud and scams.
Website: antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca
Phone: 1-888-495-8501 Reporting helps authorities track and combat fraudulent activities. - Local Police Services Contact your local police department to report the fraud Provide all relevant information, including communications and transaction details.
- Financial Institutions If you’ve transferred funds or shared financial information, notify your bank or credit union immediately. They can assist in securing your accounts and may help in recovering lost funds.
Support Services for Victims
Emotional and Peer Support
- AARS (Advocating Against Romance Scammers) AARS offers peer-led support, educational resources, and advocacy for victims of romance scams.
Website: aars.website - SeniorBusters A program by the CAFC providing support to senior victims of fraud through peer volunteers.
Contact: Via the CAFC at 1-888-495-8501
Victim Services and Counselling
- Victim Services Directory (VSD)
An online tool to locate victim support services across Canada, including counselling and legal assistance.
Website: justice.gc.ca/eng/cj-jp/victims-victimes/vsd-rsv - Provincial Victim Services
Each province offers victim services that may include counselling, legal aid, and financial assistance:- Ontario: attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/ovss
- British Columbia: gov.bc.ca/gov/content/justice/criminal-justice/victims-of-crime
- Alberta: victims.alberta.ca
Financial Assistance
Victims may be eligible for financial compensation through provincial programmes:
- Victim Compensation Programs
These programs provide financial assistance for expenses related to the crime, such as counselling or lost income. Availability and eligibility vary by province. - Restitution Orders
Courts may order offenders to compensate victims for their loses. Discuss this option with your local victim services office.
For more information on financial assistance, visit:
canada.ca/en/office-federal-ombudsperson-victims-crime/services-services/financialassist-aidefinanciere.html
By reporting the incident to these organisations, you contribute to broader efforts against cybercrime and can access support services to address the impact of the fraud.
Key notes
- Contact your bank as a priority
- Report to law enforcement or cyber helplines
- Get safe from further fraud
Re-victimisation is high with this fraud. Please get safe.
Remember, you’re not alone, and support is available to help you through this difficult time.