If You Are in Immediate Danger
Call 911 immediately. If someone threatens your physical safety or that of your loved ones, it's an emergency.
Someone threatens you with violence, to reveal embarrassing information, or to harm you if you don't pay? It's extortion, a serious crime in Canada punishable by up to 14 years in prison. You're not alone and you have recourse.
What is Extortion?
Extortion is defined in section 346 of the Canadian Criminal Code. It's the act of using threats, violence, or intimidation to obtain something (money, goods, services) from another person. Regardless of whether the threat is feasible or not, the simple act of threatening constitutes a crime.
Common Types of Extortion in Quebec
1. Extortion by Threats of Violence
Someone threatens to hurt you or your loved ones if you don't pay.
- Verbal or written threats
- Physical intimidation
- Threats against your family
2. Blackmail (Threats of Revelation)
Someone threatens to reveal embarrassing or compromising information.
- Intimate photos or videos (see sextortion)
- Personal or professional secrets
- Information about your past
3. Ransomware
Your computer files are locked and you're asked to pay to recover them.
- Personal or business computer locked
- Payment demand in Bitcoin
- Threat to delete your data
4. Commercial Extortion
Threats against your business or professional reputation.
- Threats of bad online reviews
- Threats to reveal business practices
- "Protection" demands
Real Examples Reported in Quebec
Case 1: "I received an email saying they had hacked my webcam and filmed me. They demanded $2,000 in Bitcoin or they would send the video to all my contacts. I panicked but didn't pay. Nothing happened."
Case 2: "My former business partner threatens to reveal confidential information about our old company if I don't pay him $50,000. He sends me messages every day."
Case 3: "Someone I met online threatens to tell my family I'm gay if I don't send them $5,000. I live in a very conservative family."
Case 4: "My business computer displays a message saying all my files are encrypted. They're asking for $10,000 in Bitcoin to unlock them."
What to Do If You're a Victim of Extortion?
Rule #1: DO NOT PAY
In the vast majority of cases, paying only encourages more demands. Extortionists know you're a "good target" and will come back. Also, 85% of threats are never carried out.
Step 1: Stay Calm
Extortionists count on your panic. Take time to think before acting.
Step 2: Document Everything
- Screenshots of all messages and threats
- Save emails with complete headers
- Note phone numbers used
- Record calls if legally possible
- Keep a timeline of events
Step 3: Don't Respond (or Minimally)
Every response gives information to the extortionist. If you must respond, stay neutral and don't show panic.
Step 4: File a Police Report
Extortion is a serious crime. Contact your local police service or the Surete du Quebec. Bring all your evidence.
Step 5: Protect Yourself
- Change your passwords if your accounts are compromised
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Warn your loved ones if necessary (better they hear it from you)
- Consult a lawyer for complex cases
Special Case: Ransomware
If your files are locked by ransomware:
- Disconnect the device from the network immediately
- Don't pay — There's no guarantee of recovery
- Contact a cybersecurity professional
- Report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: 1-888-495-8501
- Check on No More Ransom if a decryption tool exists
How Report Quebec Can Help You
- Structured documentation — We help you organize your evidence
- Guidance to authorities — Police, Anti-Fraud Centre
- Official record — Your report creates a history
- Specialized resources — Based on your type of extortion
Victim of Extortion or Threats?
Document your case with us. Free and confidential service.
File a ReportFrequently Asked Questions
Should I pay to make it stop?
No. In the vast majority of cases, paying encourages more demands. Extortionists know you're willing to pay and will come back with new demands.
What if the threat is real and they really have information about me?
Even if the threat is real, paying doesn't guarantee they won't release the information. Often, it's better to take control by informing the concerned people yourself.
Will the police really help me?
Yes. Extortion is a serious crime that police take seriously. With your evidence, they can open an investigation. Even if the extortionist is abroad, reporting is important.
I'm ashamed of what they threaten to reveal. What should I do?
It's normal to feel shame, but remember: you are the victim of a crime. Police officers and responders are trained to handle these situations with discretion and without judgment.
How long does an extortion investigation take?
It varies by complexity. Simple cases can be resolved in a few weeks. Cases involving criminals abroad may take longer.