Stay alert. Stay safe. Know how to recognize a scam and how the BC Family Maintenance Agency (BCFMA) may contact you.
Warning Signs of a Scam
Scammers may pretend to be from BCFMA. Be cautious if you experience any of the following.
BCFMA will never:
- Send payments or refunds by e-transfer or text message
- Request payment using:
- Credit cards or prepaid credit cards
- Interac® e-transfer
- Cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin)
- Gift cards
- Send a link to any payment option above via email or text message
- Ask for your credit card or banking information over the phone
- Threaten immediate arrest or deportation
- Ask to meet in person to collect payment
- Charge a fee to speak with a representative
Learn more about how to send and receive payments through BCFMA.
How BCFMA May Contact You
BCFMA may contact you through:
- Phone number you have on file with us
- Letter sent through Canada Post or courier
- Secure messages through your My Account portal
Scammers may try to impersonate BCFMA by spoofing our email addresses and using our logo to make messages look official.
Be cautious of any message that:
- Seems suspicious or unexpected
- Does not require you to sign in to your secure My Account portal
- Contains links or attachments you weren’t expecting
If you’re unsure whether a message is legitimate:
- Do not click any links or open attachments
- Sign into your secure My Account portal and confirm message is there
- If the message is not in your My Account inbox, contact BCFMA directly at 1-866-557-2427 to confirm the message
Your safety and privacy are our priority.
Report a Scam or Identity Theft
If you suspect a scam or believe your personal information has been compromised, report it immediately to:
- BCFMA at 1-866-557-2427
- Your local police department
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca