The short answer
Report crypto fraud to your local police for investigation and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) for data tracking and intelligence sharing. When reporting, provide documentation of the funding, the specific crypto amounts lost, and a timeline of the fraud. Remember that while the CAFC aids law enforcement, they do not directly investigate or guarantee the recovery of funds.
Reporting fraud is an essential step in helping authorities combat cybercrime and protect others. In Canada, the responsibility for investigating crime lies with local police, while the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) acts as a central repository for intelligence.
Whether you are a victim or a witness, providing accurate and detailed information to the appropriate agencies is the most effective way to support systemic prevention and enforcement efforts.
01Distinction Between Agencies
Local police are the primary authorities responsible for investigating crimes in your jurisdiction. If you are a victim, contact them as soon as possible to file a formal complaint.
The CAFC does not perform individual investigations. Instead, it collects reports to identify trends, support law enforcement with intelligence, and help in broader crime forecasting.
- Local police investigate specific criminal incidents
- CAFC collects national intelligence on fraud trends
- Both agencies share data to improve prevention efforts
Source for this section[1] CAFC: report fraud and cybercrime
02What Information to Prepare
When filing a report, be as thorough as possible. Keep records of your interactions, the amounts sent, and any information provided by the suspected fraudster.
Documenting the transaction method is vital. Include the addresses involved if possible, although understand that police are best equipped to handle the technical interpretation of that evidence.
- Detailed timeline of all communications
- Total amounts lost, including currency type
- Transcripts or copies of correspondence with the suspect
Source for this section[1] CAFC: report fraud and cybercrime
03Why Reporting is Necessary
Every report strengthens the national database, allowing the NC3 (National Cybercrime Coordination Centre) and the CAFC to link disparate incidents together.
By reporting, you contribute to a larger effort that helps law enforcement, academia, and the public sector understand evolving threats.
- Linking crimes across different regions
- Assisting in completing or progressing investigations
- Aiding in the creation of effective public warnings
Source for this section[1] CAFC: report fraud and cybercrime
04Reporting Methods
The most efficient way to report is via the official online portal at reportcyberandfraud.canada.ca. You have the option to remain anonymous if you prefer.
For those who prefer to speak with a representative, the CAFC can be reached by phone on weekdays. Be prepared to provide clear, concise details about the event.
- Online via the official government portal
- By phone during business hours
- Direct contact with local law enforcement
Source for this section[1] CAFC: report fraud and cybercrime
05Managing Expectations
It is important to understand that reporting to the CAFC does not guarantee the return of funds or the success of an investigation.
Be cautious of anyone promising that a report to a specific agency will automatically trigger a refund, especially if they ask for a fee to facilitate that 'recovery'.
- CAFC is not a compensation body
- Investigations are the responsibility of local police
- Avoid entities claiming they work 'on behalf' of the CAFC for a fee
Sources for this section[1] CAFC: report fraud and cybercrime[2] CAFC and CIRO: crypto and romance frauds
Checklist
- Contact local police to file a formal complaint immediately.
- Gather all transaction IDs, dates, and amounts.
- Save screenshots of all chats and emails with the suspect.
- Report the incident online at reportcyberandfraud.canada.ca.
- Keep a reference number from your police report.
- Provide clear, factual details to the CAFC.
- Avoid sharing your report reference number with unverified third parties.
Questions people ask
Does the CAFC return stolen cryptocurrency?
No. The CAFC is a repository for intelligence and does not have the authority or capability to recover lost assets or return funds to victims.
Can I report anonymously?
Yes. When reporting through the official Canadian government portal, you have the option to submit information anonymously if you wish.
Is there a deadline to report fraud?
You should report as soon as possible. While there is no single 'deadline' to file a report, timely information is essential for law enforcement investigations.
Safety boundaries
- No legitimate helper needs your seed phrase, private key, password, one-time code, remote access to your device or a wallet connection.
- Nobody can promise that funds will be recovered. Treat any guarantee, or any fee demanded to release funds, with suspicion.
- Find official contact details yourself, through the regulator, bank or platform website, not through a message or advert you received.
- This guide is general education. It is not legal, financial or tax advice and does not assess your situation.
If you want to organise your facts, the initial claim outline on our homepage collects only a short summary and contact details. It creates no client relationship and promises no outcome. Do not send documents or credentials.
Official sources
- [1]CAFC: report fraud and cybercrime
Checked 4 October 2026 - [2]CAFC and CIRO: crypto and romance frauds
Checked 4 October 2026
AI-assisted educational content published by Central Crypto Claim using the official sources listed below. No independent expert review is claimed. This is not legal, financial or tax advice.