What To Do RIGHT NOW
🚨 If in immediate danger — Call 911
If someone has threatened to harm us or our family in person, or we believe they may act on a threat immediately, contact emergency services first.
We are not alone. This is not our fault. There are safe steps we can take.
Official BC Government resource: gov.bc.ca/stopextortion
Step 1: Pause. Do not pay.
Paying rarely stops extortion — it often leads to more demands.
Take a breath. We have options. The next steps will help us protect ourselves.
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.
We don’t need to look at it right now. Just don’t erase it.
Step 3: Stop responding to the extortionist
We do not need to reply. Continued contact often escalates threats.
If they contact us again, document it (screenshot, save) but do not engage.
Step 4: Secure our accounts
If they’ve shown access to our 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 us out.
Step 5: Tell someone we 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 us.
We 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. We may fear disappointing our family or damaging our reputation.
Remember:
- We are victims of a crime — not wrongdoers
- Extortionists deliberately exploit shame and family expectations
- Many families, when told, respond with support rather than judgment
- Professional counselors can help us decide how and when to talk to family
Step 6: Report it
Reporting helps protect us 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
We do not have to share content we find embarrassing. Focus on: what happened, when, and how they contacted us.
Step 7: Get support
This is stressful. It’s normal to feel scared, ashamed, angry, or overwhelmed. We 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. We are the victims, not the wrongdoers.
- Shame is their weapon. Naming what’s happening takes power back.
- Help exists. Police, victim services, and community organizations are ready to support us.
- We 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 our languages.
Last updated: February 2026