You ordered a product online, paid, but never received anything? The site disappeared or the seller no longer responds? You're not alone. Online purchase scams are among the most common in Quebec. Here's how to react and maximize your chances of recovering your money.
Most Common Types of Scams
1. Fake E-commerce Site
A site that looks like a real online store, with attractive products at low prices. You pay, but the product never arrives. The site often disappears after a few weeks.
2. Copycat Legitimate Site
A site that perfectly imitates Amazon, Best Buy, or another major retailer. The URL is slightly different (amazon-deals.com instead of amazon.ca). Your payment information is stolen.
3. Counterfeit or Poor Quality Product
You receive something, but it's a poor quality counterfeit, or a completely different product from what was advertised.
4. Fraudulent Social Media Ads
Instagram or Facebook ads for "revolutionary" products at slashed prices. Testimonials are fake, photos stolen, and the product doesn't exist or is very poor quality.
Real Examples Reported in Quebec
"I ordered furniture from a site that seemed professional. $1,200 paid by credit card. No delivery, site gone, phone number out of service." — Marie, Montreal
"A Facebook ad for earbuds 'like AirPods' at $29. I received plastic earbuds that didn't even work. Impossible to contact the seller." — Jean, Quebec City
"I bought a Canada Goose coat for $200 on a site. I received an obvious counterfeit, seams undone, poorly printed labels." — Sophie, Laval
"Ordered an electric bike for $800. Tracking showed 'delivered' but I never received anything. Seller says it's my problem." — Pierre, Gatineau
What to Do If You're a Victim?
Immediate Actions:
- Keep all evidence — Order confirmation, emails, screenshots of the site
- Contact the seller — In writing (email) to have a record
- Check your payment method — Credit card? PayPal? Transfer?
- Note the site URL and all available information about the seller
Based on Your Payment Method
Credit Card (Best Protection)
- Call your card issuer and request a chargeback
- You generally have 60-120 days to dispute
- Provide evidence: order, non-delivery, contact attempts
- The bank investigates and usually refunds you
PayPal
- Open a dispute in the Resolution Center
- You have 180 days from purchase
- PayPal buyer protection often covers you
Interac Transfer or Wire (Difficult)
- Contact your bank immediately
- Recovery is rare but sometimes possible if quick
- File a police report
How Report Quebec Can Help You
- Complete documentation of your case
- Guidance to appropriate recourse based on your payment method
- Official record of the fraud
- Help identifying warning signs for the future
Victim of Online Purchase Fraud?
Document your case with us. Your report helps identify fraudulent sites and protect other Quebecers.
File a ReportFrequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to dispute?
For credit cards, generally 60-120 days. For PayPal, 180 days. Act quickly!
Should I file a police report?
Yes, especially for large amounts. It creates an official record and helps authorities track fraudulent networks.
How do I recognize a fake site?
Prices too good to be true, no physical address, suspicious URL, poor quality photos, spelling mistakes, no return policy.