Extortion targeting Asian communities – law enforcement impersonation
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) is raising awareness of an extortion fraud involving individuals impersonating law enforcement officials from China and Hong Kong. The fraud has been reported internationally and primarily targets members of the Asian community, including students and individuals with ties to mainland China or Hong Kong.
In this scheme, victims are contacted by phone and falsely accused of being involved in criminal activity. Fraudsters claim to represent agencies such as the Public Safety Bureau (PSB) or other international public safety authorities. Victims are pressured to cooperate with a supposed “investigation” and may be instructed to travel or transfer funds under urgent and threatening circumstances. In some cases, victims are directed to convert money into gold or other high-value assets and surrender them to individuals posing as officers of the law such as anti-corruption officials. These tactics are designed to create fear, urgency and compliance.
Warning signs
- You receive an unsolicited call or message from someone claiming to be law enforcement and the caller accuses you of being involved in a crime or criminal investigation
- You are told to keep the situation secret from family or friends
- You are pressured to act quickly or face arrest, deportation or legal consequences
- You are instructed to travel, withdraw funds, or convert money into gold
- The caller provides personal information about you to appear credible
How to protect yourself
- Report threats and intimidation to your local police
- Law enforcement agencies will never demand payment, gold, or valuables as part of an investigation
- Do not share personal or financial information with unknown callers
- If you receive a similar call or message, hang up or do not respond
- Don’t feel pressured. Speak to a trusted friend or family member before taking action
- Visit antifraudcentre.ca for more information on how to protect yourself from fraud
Anyone who suspects they have been the target of cybercrime or fraud should report it to their local police. Also visit the Report Cybercrime and Fraud website to report online or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
- Date modified: