Fraud Education

At HoneyBadger, safeguarding our customers from fraudulent or suspicious transactions is a top priority. We’re committed to protecting you in an ever-evolving landscape of fraud, having successfully recovered over $2M since 2018 through our vigilant efforts. 

Read our comprehensive fraud guide to stay informed and vigilant against various fraud types.

Relationship Impersonation

Fraudsters form online relationships with individuals living abroad, often requesting Bitcoin for various reasons like family emergencies or weddings. They may promise to move to Canada or discuss marriage as the connection deepens.

Warning Signs:

  • Initial contact through social media, dating sites, or online forums.
  • Requests for financial assistance in Bitcoin.
  • Promises of relocation to Canada or marriage.

Job Offer Fraud

Online jobseekers are tricked into sending Bitcoin to a supposed new employer they met online. The employer typically sends a fraudulent e-transfer or cheque, asking the job-seeker to return the majority in Bitcoin.

Warning Signs:

  • Receiving a job offer from an online source.
  • Involvement in tasks like bank visits and Bitcoin machine use.
  • Request to send back a large portion of received funds in Bitcoin.

CRA/Government Institution/Police Extortion

Scammers impersonate authorities, claiming individuals’ SINs are compromised. Victims are instructed to empty their bank accounts and send all funds for safekeeping in a Bitcoin wallet owned by the fraudsters.

Warning Signs:

  • Receiving calls or emails from fake CRA or government representatives.
  • Demands to send funds in Bitcoin for supposed protection.
  • Urgent requests to clear bank accounts and send Bitcoin.

Customs Scam

Victims are deceived into thinking they must pay in Bitcoin to clear customs for a package allegedly arriving from overseas.

Warning Signs:

  • Receiving communication from fake shipping companies.
  • Demands for Bitcoin payment to clear a package.
  • Suspicion of packages from unknown sources.

Rental Scam

Fraudulent rental property listings require deposit and/or rent payment in Bitcoin. Once funds are received, communication abruptly ends.

Warning Signs:

  • Online rental listings with attractive terms.
  • Demands for deposit and rent payments in Bitcoin.
  • Sudden termination of communication after payment.

Used Vehicle Scheme

Scammers, posing as brokers or representatives of online investment platforms, request Bitcoin deposits at Bitcoin ATMs, promising investment tips or guaranteed returns.

Warning Signs:

  • Unsolicited contact from investment “professionals.”
  • Pressure to make Bitcoin deposits.
  • Promises of high returns with minimal risk.

Investment Hoax

Scammers, posing as brokers or representatives of online investment platforms, request Bitcoin deposits at Bitcoin ATMs, promising investment tips or guaranteed returns.

Warning Signs:

  • Unsolicited contact from investment “professionals.”
  • Pressure to make Bitcoin deposits.
  • Promises of high returns with minimal risk.

Bill Payment Falsification

Impersonators claim to be utility service providers, such as BC Hydro or TELUS, demanding immediate Bitcoin payments for overdue bills or outstanding balances.

Warning Signs:

  • Unsolicited communication from utility service providers.
  • Urgent requests to pay bills exclusively in Bitcoin.
  • Threats of service disruption for non-payment.

Immigration Deception

Fraudsters impersonate immigration officers, requesting personal/financial information or offering time-limited visa deals under threats, including arrest, deportation, or account suspension without Bitcoin payment.

Warning Signs:

  • Unsolicited calls or emails from fake immigration officers.
  • Requests for personal/financial details or Bitcoin payments.
  • Threats related to legal actions or visa status.

Lawyer Impersonation

Scammers pose as lawyers, falsely claiming charges against individuals or their loved ones. They offer to act as legal representation and request Bitcoin payments as legal fees.

Warning Signs:

  • Unexpected contact from supposed lawyers.
  • Claims of legal charges or issues.
  • Demands for Bitcoin payments to cover legal fees.

Celebrity Relationship Misrepresentation

Scammers build trusting online relationships, claiming to be “celebrities.” They share personal struggles and eventually seek financial help, as their funds become inaccessible.

Warning Signs:

  • Unsolicited contact from someone claiming to be a celebrity.
  • Sharing of personal struggles and difficulties.
  • Requests for financial assistance, often in the form of Bitcoin.

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