An unexpected caller says you owe money and must pay with gift cards. They may claim to represent a government agency, a bank, a utility company, or technical support. This payment request is a major warning sign.
Why gift cards are used
Gift cards are designed for gifts and purchases from specific retailers, not for paying taxes, fines, debts, or account-security fees. Scammers may ask you to buy cards and read the codes over the phone. Once the codes are redeemed, recovering the money can be difficult.
Do not follow the caller’s instructions
Do not buy gift cards, reveal card codes, or send photos of the cards. End the call and independently contact the organization the caller claims to represent. Use an official number found through a trusted source.
What if the caller threatens you?
Pressure, secrecy, and threats of immediate arrest or service disconnection are common tactics. Take time to verify the claim. Speak with someone you trust if you feel overwhelmed.
If you already shared the codes
Contact the gift-card issuer or retailer immediately and ask whether the balance can be protected. Keep the cards, receipts, messages, and phone details. Report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and contact your financial institution if other information was exposed.
Check the number
You can search CallCheck.ca for reports about the displayed number. Treat reports as clues, because caller ID may be spoofed and no search result can conclusively identify the caller.
Remember: an unexpected caller demanding gift cards is not a payment request you should comply with. Verify the claim independently and report suspected fraud.