When you lose a loved one, the last thing you want to worry about is their obituary being copied and used to scam people out of their hard-earned money. Sadly, that’s exactly what’s happening online with obituary scams, but there are ways to protect yourself and your loved one’s memory.
Where do we fit in?
We are the provincial regulator for the funeral, cemetery and crematorium industry. While we don’t have authority over fraud and scams, we’re sharing this information to help consumers learn how to protect themselves.
What you need to know about obituary scams
Here’s why you may need to be vigilant before handing money over in memory of a loved one. The funeral industry has received reports of some websites pirating or copying information pulled from legitimate obituaries to solicit donations or sell memorial gifts such as flowers on behalf of grieving families. Instead of supporting someone you care for, the bad actors make off with the money.
How to protect yourself and your loved ones from obituary scams
The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to know who you’re giving to.
- Ensure the obituary is posted by an organization you recognize, such as a funeral home or a local newspaper
- Call the funeral service provider listed on the obituary to verify they are soliciting donations on behalf of the family
- If it’s appropriate, talk to someone close to the family and confirm their wishes
- Do a licence search for the funeral home or crematorium on our website to ensure the company is licensed to operate in BC
Where to go for help
We are not responsible for dealing with issues involving scams or fraud, but there are other resources that can help.
If you think you or someone you know is a victim of obituary piracy, contact your local police department and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Visit our website to learn your funeral services rights in BC.
About Consumer Protection BC
We are not-for-profit regulator responsible for overseeing certain industries and specific consumer transactions in British Columbia. If your concern is captured under the laws we enforce, we will use the tools at our disposal to assist you. If we can’t help you directly, we will try to offer a referral to a relevant organization, if one exists. Other times, court or legal assistance may be the best option. Explore our website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca