Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 

File: 25-24030

Victoria, B.C. – VicPD is alerting the public about online scams known as “task-based” scams after a local resident recently reported a significant financial loss. 

On June 27, VicPD received a report from a resident who had been targeted by a fraudulent scheme that began in May. The resident reported being contacted via text message by an individual claiming to be a company recruiter. They were directed to a website and a cryptocurrency application and provided with a small amount of money. 

The scam quickly escalated, with the victim being asked to complete tasks involving online reviews and investments with the promise of reimbursement and commission. After investing a significant amount of money, the resident realized they had been defrauded. 

VicPD urges the public to be cautious of unsolicited offers and to avoid investing money based solely on instructions from an unknown individual online. Fraudsters often pressure victims to make quick decisions and demand payment in cryptocurrency, which is difficult to trace and recover. If someone asks you to pay upfront in cryptocurrency or pressures you to act quickly, do not comply – it is a scam. 

Once money or cryptocurrency has been sent, recovery is often impossible. Because cryptocurrency transactions happen quickly, reporting suspected fraud immediately is critical. The faster police are alerted, the better their chances of tracing funds. Be vigilant and trust your instincts – report any suspicious activity right away to give us the best chance of helping victims. 

You can learn more about how to protect yourself, your family, and your organization from fraud by visiting vicpd.ca/fraud. If you have fallen victim to a fraud, stop payment immediately, contact your financial institution and call the E-Comm Report Desk at (250) 995-7654 extension 1. 

If you think you or someone you know has been a victim of an attempted fraud, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or by making a report online.    

Here are other tips to protect yourself from online scams: 

  • Be wary of unsolicited messages or offers. 
  • Verify the legitimacy of any company or individual before providing personal or financial information. 
  • Never invest money based solely on instructions from an unknown source. 
  • Be skeptical of promises of guaranteed returns or easy money. 

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