Buying hockey gear online has never been more convenient but for Canadian families, it’s also never been more risky.
From counterfeit sticks to fake retailer websites, scam operations targeting hockey parents, players and rec leagues are becoming harder to spot. Experts say being cautious and knowing what to look for can save buyers from losing hundreds of dollars or ending up with unsafe equipment.
The RCMP says it frequently hears from Canadians about fraudulent websites and urges the public to take caution when shopping online.
“When buying or selling online, criminals exploit the internet’s anonymity,” the RCMP said in a statement. “Always verify sellers and be wary of deals that sound too good.”
Online shoppers say some fake sites closely mimic the look and branding of legitimate hockey retailers. They often feature sleek layouts, discounted gear, and brand-name logos. But behind the scenes, many offer no customer service, no working contact information, and no intention of fulfilling orders.
“I paid for two sticks and after weeks of silence, I never got anything,” said Jason Miller, an Ontario-based rec league player. “The site looks professional, but once you try to reach customer service, it’s impossible to get a straight answer.”
Others report receiving tracking numbers that never lead to delivery, dealing with invalid emails or phone numbers, or finding surprise charges added after checkout. Some even receive products but they arrive damaged, fake or clearly not what was advertised.
“There were charges on my credit card but no package arrived,” said another buyer on a hockey forum.
“You might think you’re getting a deal on a top-end stick, but what shows up could break in two shots or not show up at all,” said Vince Giffin, who works for CCM.
Experts say visual clues can help buyers spot scam sites. Some listings use low-resolution images or copy product photos from real retailers.
“The photos on the site looked blurry or low-quality, like they were copied from somewhere else,” said Steve Maxwell, a certified trainer in Durham Region. “That’s a red flag. Legitimate retailers usually use clean, branded images.”
While counterfeit gear can be a financial setback, it can also pose safety risks especially if helmets, pads or goalie equipment don’t meet certified protection standards.
Buyers are encouraged to take several precautions:
- Verify contact information on the site.
- Check online reviews and complaint forums.
- Avoid payment methods like e-transfers or wire transfers.
If you believe you’ve been scammed, the RCMP recommends contacting your bank immediately, reporting the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, and alerting local authorities.