Fictional scam example · 6 of 6
The promise to get your money back
A second approach targets someone who has already lost money.
Read the example
What would make you pause? Open each explanation, then compare your next step.
Three things to notice
1. Knowledge of a previous loss
Knowing what happened does not prove the contact is legitimate.
2. Money is required in advance
A promised refund or recovery tied to an advance fee is a warning sign.
3. Remote access is part of the offer
Access to your device can expose more information and lead to another loss.
A safer next step
Do not pay the advance fee or give remote access. Keep evidence of the approach and use the official reporting route. Contact your financial institution through known details about the original loss. No one can guarantee recovery.
These clues are not a definitive scam test. Some fraudulent messages are polished and have no obvious errors.
Sources & review
Source check: October 5, 2026. These links go to the original publishers; listing a source is not an endorsement. Safety and reporting guidance follows these official Canadian pages. Confirm current details there before acting.
- CAFC — Recovery pitch
- CAFC — What to do if you're a victim of fraud
- CAFC — Report fraud and cybercrime