Operation CANSCAM
Operation CANSCAM
Fill out the online questionnaire
The FBI is currently investigating the activities of allegedly fraudulent Canadian business entities that are defrauding U.S. companies. In summary, the scam begins when a Canadian business (typically located in or around Montreal, Quebec) requests a line of credit with a U.S. business. The Canadian business will fax or e-mail references, credit documents, and/or tax documents to prove authenticity. The Canadian business will then place an order for materials on the line of credit and arrange for shipping by a third party. The materials are hauled to Canada, and payment is never made.
To date, the FBI is aware of the following industries being affected by this scheme:
- Lumber and construction material retailers (lumber, siding, roofing, flooring, etc.)
- Tire retailers
- Auto parts retailers
- Trucking and logistics companies
- Painting supply companies
The FBI is aware of the following allegedly fraudulent Canadian businesses that are currently or have previously been involved in this scheme:
- Canstruct, Inc.
- AYA Distributors
- Xpress Auto Parts
- Point Tech Performer, Inc.
- Emptech
If you believe that you have been victimized by any of these entities or any other Canadian business using these methods, please complete the online questionnaire. Please maintain any and all documentation related to your victimization, including original electronic documents or e-mails. Attempt to document any telephone conversations, specifically dates and times they may have occurred.
Here is a sample of what you will be asked to submit using the online questionnaire form:
- Your contact information, including business name and your name, address, telephone numbers, and e-mail address
- Materials ordered
- Loss amount
- Initial contact date
- Shipping/transportation company used
For more information on this fraudulent scheme, call (877) 236-8947 and select option 2. If you have additional information you would like to provide, please e-mail canscam@ic.fbi.gov.
Your information is confidential, and FBI agents will review submissions for case documentation. The FBI Office for Victim Assistance will use your contact information to inform you of your rights in this matter through the FBI Victim Notification System (VNS).
