The first two days matter. Acting quickly gives exchanges the best chance to preserve funds and gives you the strongest evidence. This checklist is free to use whether or not you contact us.
1. Stop sending money
Do not pay any “withdrawal fee”, “tax”, “unlock fee” or “verification deposit”. Stop all contact with the scammer, but do not delete the conversation.
2. Secure what you still have
- Move any remaining crypto to a new wallet created on a clean device.
- Change passwords for your email, exchange accounts and banking, starting with email.
- Turn on app-based two-factor authentication (not SMS where possible).
- If you installed any app or gave anyone remote access, disconnect the device from the internet and have it checked.
3. Preserve the evidence
Gather and keep, in one folder:
- Transaction IDs (hashes) and the wallet addresses you sent funds to
- The platform’s website address and app name
- Screenshots of the platform dashboard, chats, emails and profiles
- Exchange statements showing the transfers out of your account
Never share your recovery phrase or private keys with anyone. No one investigating your case needs them.
4. Report it
- Police: report to your local police service and keep the report number.
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: report online or call 1-888-495-8501.
- Your exchange: tell the exchange you sent from, in writing, and ask them to flag the receiving addresses.
5. Watch for recovery scams
Expect messages from people offering to get your money back. Many are scammers. Read our recovery-scam warning signs and check any company in the official business registry before you share details.
6. Get a professional opinion
If a meaningful amount is involved, fraud recovery specialists working with blockchain analysts can tell you whether the funds can be traced to an exchange and which recovery routes — including legal action through independent lawyers — are realistic. A genuine company won’t ask you to pay anything upfront.
Frequently asked questions
Should I pay the platform's 'withdrawal fee' to get my money out?
No. Fees or taxes demanded before a withdrawal are a classic sign of a fake platform. Paying more almost never releases funds.
Someone contacted me offering to recover my funds. Should I trust them?
Be very careful. Fraudsters often target victims a second time posing as recovery services, police or law firms. Verify any firm independently before sharing anything.