Online and computer scams

“I got a 'u up?' email from my pastor early one morning. He had a favour to ask. A friend of his, in hospital with late-stage cancer, was scheduled for surgery that night. It would give her great comfort to hear her favourite music, he said. He was tied up. Could I possibly pick up some iTunes gift cards, asap? I was to scratch off the backing of the cards to reveal the codes, take a picture, and email them to his friend in the hospital. I did so. Turns out my pastor never sent the email. It was a scam under his name. And my email to the so-called cancer-stricken friend went to the scammers. I never got my money back." 

– Kathy, Mission, BC

Technology has opened up new opportunities for people with bad intentions to try to trick you out of your money. Learn how to identify and guard against online and computer scams.

Spot the scam

Prevent problems

Who can help

  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in May 2017
  • Time to read: 7 minutes

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