High riskBank & Payment Scams

Fake E-Transfer Scam

This scam sends a fake e-transfer notification linking to a phishing page that imitates your bank's login to steal your online banking details.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
E-transfer phishing scam
Main red flag
An e-transfer 'deposit' email that asks you to log in through its link.
What to do first
Do not use the email link. Deposit through your bank's official app or website.

What this scam usually looks like

This scam sends a fake e-transfer notification linking to a phishing page that imitates your bank's login to steal your online banking details.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'INTERAC e-Transfer: You have received $250.00. Click here to deposit your funds: [suspicious link]'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • An e-transfer from someone you do not know or were not expecting
  • A 'deposit' link that opens a bank login page rather than your app
  • A web address that is not your bank's official site
  • A request for your card number, password, or security questions
  • Pressure to deposit quickly before it 'expires'

What to do

  • Open your bank's official app or website to receive transfers
  • Use auto-deposit so you never click an email link
  • Verify any unexpected transfer with the supposed sender
  • Report the phishing email to your bank and delete it

If you already clicked or replied

  • Do not enter your banking details on the linked page
  • If you logged in, change your online banking password immediately
  • Call your bank to secure your account
  • Review recent activity for anything unexpected

What not to do

  • Do not enter banking logins on emailed links
  • Do not share security question answers
  • Do not accept transfers from unknown senders

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Frequently asked questions

How can I receive e-transfers safely?
Set up auto-deposit with your bank so funds arrive automatically without any link, and access transfers only through your official banking app or website.
The email looks like my bank. Is it real?
Scammers copy bank branding closely. The safe approach is to ignore the link and check directly in your official banking app.
Why would a stranger send me money?
They are not really sending money. The 'deposit' link leads to a fake login page designed to capture your banking credentials.
I entered my banking login. What now?
Change your password immediately, call your bank to secure the account, and watch for unauthorised transactions.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.