The BC Lottery Corporation is warning the public about "predatory" and "sophisticated" scams involving the likeness of B.C. casinos.
In a news release, the organization says the scam involves the imitation of casinos in the province, tricking people into providing financial details on fake websites.
The schemes share fraudulent posts and advertisements that use logos, names and exterior pictures of British Columbia casinos, offering player exclusive bonuses and promotions when someone registers with their website or mobile app.
"BCLC warns that none of these sites are associated with casinos in B.C. or [the] BCLC," the release states.
BCLC says it's working with its casino partners to have the posts removed, but British Columbians should still stay alert when it comes to the scams.
The organization is offering the following advice to the public:
- Be on alert when a website or app asks for personal or financial information. BCLC’s verified websites and apps will never ask for your social insurance number (SIN), banking information or credit card details online to claim a prize from a B.C. casino.
- Carefully check the URL and domain of the website to verify legitimacy. Often, scammers will use a similar URL and domain to legitimate websites with a minor spelling difference.
- Always verify the company and its service area real before providing any personal information.
- Look out for other red flags including the suggestion of fees or taxes to be paid on a prize. There are no fees or taxes on prizes won in Canada.
Anyone who feels unsure about an account, post or advertisement claiming to be a B.C. casino is encouraged to contact BCLC directly by calling the customer support centre at 1-866-815-0222 or use the resource.
