What To Do RIGHT NOW
🚨 If you are in immediate danger — Call 911
If someone has threatened to harm you or your family in person, or you believe they may act on a threat immediately, contact emergency services first.
You are not alone. This is not your fault. There are safe steps you can take.
Official BC Government resource: gov.bc.ca/stopextortion
Step 1: Pause. Do not pay.
Paying rarely stops extortion — it usually leads to more demands.
Take a breath. You have options. The next steps will help you protect yourself.
Step 2: Do not delete anything
Messages, emails, screenshots, voicemails, and call logs are evidence. Even if the content is embarrassing or distressing, do not delete it.
You don’t need to look at it right now. Just don’t erase it.
Step 3: Stop responding to the extortionist
You do not need to reply. Continued contact often escalates threats.
If they contact you again, document it (screenshot, save) but do not engage.
Step 4: Secure your accounts
If they’ve shown access to your accounts or personal information:
- Change passwords on email, social media, and financial accounts
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where available
- Check for unfamiliar logins or connected devices
- Review recent account activity
Act quickly — before they can lock you out.
Step 5: Tell someone you trust
Extortion thrives on isolation and shame. Telling one trusted person — a friend, family member, counselor, or community leader — reduces the extortionist’s power over you.
You don’t have to share every detail. Even saying “I’m dealing with a difficult situation and need support” is enough.
💬 A note on family and community
We understand that in many South Asian families, certain topics carry cultural stigma. You may fear disappointing your family or damaging your reputation.
Remember:
- You are the victim of a crime — not the wrongdoer
- Extortionists deliberately exploit shame and family expectations
- Many families, when told, respond with support rather than judgment
- Professional counselors can help you decide how and when to talk to family
Step 6: Report it
Reporting helps protect you and others. Every report helps police connect cases, identify patterns, and stop extortionists.
In British Columbia
If in immediate danger: Call 911
To report (non-emergency):
| Community | Police Non-Emergency | Tip Line / Victim Services |
|---|---|---|
| Surrey | 604-599-0502 | Extortion Tip Line: 236-485-5149 |
| Abbotsford | 604-859-5225 | Victim Services: 604-835-9696 |
| Delta | 604-946-4411 | Victim Services: 604-940-5019 |
| Langley | 604-532-3200 | Victim Services: 604-532-3214 |
Anonymous tips: BC Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-8477
National reporting: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: 1-888-495-8501
You do not have to share content you find embarrassing. Focus on: what happened, when, and how they contacted you.
Step 7: Get support
This is stressful. It’s normal to feel scared, ashamed, angry, or overwhelmed. You don’t have to handle this alone.
VictimLink BC — Free, confidential, 24/7
📞 Call or text: 1-800-563-0808
- Available in 240+ languages including Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu
- Trained victim service workers provide safety planning, emotional support, and help navigating the system
Financial assistance for victims
The Crime Victim Assistance Program may cover:
- Counselling services
- Security upgrades (up to $3,000 for locks, cameras, security systems)
- Relocation expenses in certain circumstances
| Call: 1-866-660-3888 (press 5) | Monday–Friday, 8:30am–4:30pm |
What NOT to do
Remember
- Extortion is a crime. You are the victim, not the wrongdoer.
- Shame is their weapon. Naming what’s happening takes power back.
- Help exists. Police, victim services, and community organizations are ready to support you.
- You are not alone. This is happening to many people. There is no shame in seeking help.
This page in other languages
📞 Still unsure what to do?
Contact VictimLink BC at 1-800-563-0808 — free, confidential, 24/7, in your language.
Last updated: February 2026