BCLC warns about 'highly deceptive' scams posing as BC casinos

The BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) is warning residents about a series of scams currently happening online.

An advisory issued Monday afternoon says the scams circulating online allegedly imitate BC casino posts and advertisements on various social media platforms, like Facebook or Instagram.

According to the BCLC, the fraudulent posts deceive individuals into providing their financial information on illegitimate websites.

The scam involves using the logos, names and exterior images of BC land-based casino brands.

The “highly deceptive” posts and advertisements reportedly offer players exclusive bonuses and promotions if they register with their website or mobile app.

BCLC says none of the sites are associated with casinos in BC or BCLC.

“While BCLC and its casino partners are actively working to have posts removed, British Columbians should be cautious when it comes to these predatory and sophisticated scams,” the advisory says.

“BCLC encourages individuals to 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 BC casino.”

The advisory reminds all British Columbians that all BCLC-operated social media accounts, like BCLC, PlayNow BC, PlayNow Sports, Lotto BC and Casinos BC, are verified with a check mark.

Additionally, people can look out for other “red flags” like the suggestion of fees or taxes to be paid on a prize – In Canada, there are no fees or taxes on prizes won.

If someone feels unsure about an account, post or advertisement claiming to be a BC casino, call the Customer Support Centre at 1-866-815-0222, or use the live chat resource on corporate.bclc.com or PlayNow.com.

People can also report any fraudulent activity to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or by calling 1-888-495-8501, or by calling their local police.

To help remove some of these fraudulent social media accounts, BCLC encourages people to report the post or advertisement.