Some Canadian banks automatically block or flag Interac e-Transfers sent to cryptocurrency exchanges, including 1Bitcoin.ca.
While this can be frustrating, it’s important to know that this is typically a policy decision made by your bank — not a restriction from 1Bitcoin.ca.
Why Banks Sometimes Block Crypto-Related Transfers
Many major Canadian financial institutions use automated fraud-prevention systems that flag transfers related to cryptocurrency purchases.
Even if you are personally authorizing the transaction, the bank may temporarily block it if they believe it could be:
Fraudulent activity
Unauthorized account access
A high-risk transaction
Related to cryptocurrency purchases
This is increasingly common with banks such as:
TD Canada Trust
RBC
BMO
Scotiabank
CIBC
In many cases, the transfer can still be approved once you confirm it directly with your bank.
Option 1: Call Your Bank To Approve the Transfer
The fastest solution is usually to contact your bank directly.
Steps to Follow
Call the phone number on the back of your debit card
Explain that you are intentionally sending an Interac e-Transfer to 1Bitcoin.ca
Let them know that 1Bitcoin.ca is a FINTRAC-registered Canadian Bitcoin exchange
Ask them to approve, whitelist, or remove restrictions on the transfer
Retry the e-Transfer once they confirm the block has been removed
In many cases, the transfer will go through successfully after manual approval.
Option 2: Use a More Crypto-Friendly Bank or Credit Union
Some Canadian financial institutions are generally more accommodating toward cryptocurrency-related transactions.
Users have reported better success rates with:
Simplii Financial
EQ Bank
Local credit unions
Certain online banking platforms such as Koho or Wealthsimple
Policies can still vary by account and institution, but these options may result in fewer transfer interruptions.
Option 3: Contact 1Bitcoin.ca Support
If your bank repeatedly blocks your transfers and you’re unsure how to proceed, our support team may be able to help you identify alternative options.
Contact us at:
Important To Know
A blocked transfer does not necessarily mean your account is restricted or that you’ve done anything wrong. In most cases, it is simply an automated fraud-prevention measure triggered by your bank.
Once approved, future transfers may process more smoothly.
If your e-Transfer was already sent but hasn’t been credited yet, see: “My deposit hasn’t arrived — what do I do?”