VANCOUVER: BC Hydro is warning customers to remain vigilant as reports of attempted and successful scams surged in May 2025, highlighting the growing sophistication of fraud targeting British Columbians.
Over the course of the month, 60 customers reported falling victim to a scam, while another 92 alerted BC Hydro to attempted scams. This represents an increase of 36 per cent in overall scam activity compared to the monthly average from February to April. BC Hydro cautions that the actual number of incidents is likely significantly higher, as many fraud attempts go unreported.
“Scammers are continually refining their tactics to appear more convincing and credible,” said Susie Rieder, BC Hydro spokesperson. “We urge customers to trust their instincts – if something feels off, it probably is – and to report suspicious activity right away.”
Fraud tactics have become increasingly sophisticated. Criminals are impersonating BC Hydro through spoofed phone calls, emails and deceptive online ads. These often link to fake websites offering fraudulent discounts on solar panels, home upgrades and other services. A recent incident involved a paid Google ad that closely mimicked BC Hydro’s official website, resulting in several successful scams. In some cases, scammers have even appeared at customers' homes posing as BC Hydro employees, attempting to access their property or try to sell them solar or battery services, with the promise of rebates.
In response, BC Hydro continues to work closely with law enforcement, social media platforms and search engines to identify and remove fraudulent content as quickly as possible. All reports submitted to BC Hydro are investigated and used to bolster prevention efforts.
To help customers stay protected, BC Hydro offers the top five scam warning signs:
- Unexpected payment requests: BC Hydro will never call to request credit card, banking info, or accept payment via cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency or Interac e-transfer.
- Suspicious messages: BC Hydro does not send billing or usage texts to residential customers. Check suspicious messages by logging into your MyHydro account or calling us at 1 800 BC HYDRO.
- False refunds or rebates: Only rebate program participants who opted in via MyHydro may receive a legitimate Interac email. We never issue refunds or credits via e-transfer.
- Fake contractors or affiliations: When hiring contractors, get multiple quotes and confirm BC Hydro affiliation. You always pay the contractor directly – never BC Hydro or CleanBC.
- Unannounced visits or calls: Employees never enter homes unannounced. Ask for ID and call us to confirm legitimacy. Scam calls can spoof our number. If in doubt, hang up and call us back directly at 1 800 BC HYDRO.
Customers are also encouraged to report fraudulent texts, calls, or emails to their local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. BC Hydro offers scam awareness resources on its website and regularly posts updates through social media to help customers stay informed.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
e. media@bchydro.com
p. 604 928 6468