Scams are everywhere—online, over the phone, and even at your doorstep. And while Canadians are known for being polite and trusting, those qualities can sometimes make us easy targets for fraudsters. The good news? With a little knowledge and some proactive steps, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to scams. Whether you’re worried about your tech-savvy teen, your elderly parents, or just yourself, here’s a simple, engaging guide to staying scam-free in Canada.

1. Know the Common Scams in Canada

Scammers are creative, but their tricks often follow familiar patterns. Here are some of the most common scams targeting Canadians:

• CRA Scams: Fraudsters call or email, claiming to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), and demand immediate payment for unpaid taxes.

• Grandparent Scams: Scammers pretend to be a grandchild in trouble, asking for money to cover an emergency.

• Phishing Emails: Fake emails that look like they’re from banks, government agencies, or even Amazon, asking you to click on a link or share personal information.

• Romance Scams: Fraudsters create fake profiles on dating apps to build trust and then ask for money.

• Tech Support Scams: Pop-up messages or calls claiming your computer has a virus and urging you to pay for “tech support.”

Knowing these scams is the first step to avoiding them.

2. Protect Your Personal Information

Your personal information is like gold to scammers. Here’s how to keep it safe:

• Never share sensitive info: The CRA, your bank, or any legitimate organization will never ask for your SIN, passwords, or credit card details over email or phone.

• Use strong passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for your online accounts and update them regularly. Consider using a password manager to keep track.

• Enable two-factor authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.

3. Teach Your Family About Scams

Scammers often prey on vulnerable family members, like seniors or young adults. Have open conversations about how scams work and what to watch for:

• For seniors: Explain common scams like the grandparent scam or fake lottery wins. Remind them to always verify unexpected requests for money.

• For teens and young adults: Teach them to be cautious online, especially on social media and dating apps. Warn them about phishing emails and fake job offers.

• For everyone: Encourage your family to trust their instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

4. Verify Before You Trust

Scammers are masters of disguise, but you can outsmart them by verifying their claims:

• Hang up and call back: If someone calls claiming to be from your bank or the CRA, hang up and call the organization directly using a number from their official website.

• Check email addresses: Scammers often use email addresses that look similar to legitimate ones. Look for misspellings or strange domains.

• Google it: If you’re unsure about a request or offer, do a quick online search. Chances are, others have reported it as a scam.

5. Monitor Financial Accounts

Regularly checking your bank and credit card statements can help you catch fraudulent activity early:

• Set up alerts: Many banks offer text or email alerts for transactions over a certain amount.

• Check your credit report: You’re entitled to a free credit report once a year from Equifax and TransUnion. Look for any accounts or activities you don’t recognize.

6. Report Scams

If you or a family member encounters a scam, report it! This helps authorities track and stop fraudsters:

• Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC): Report scams online or by calling 1-888-495-8501.

• Notify your bank: If you’ve shared financial information, let your bank know so they can monitor your accounts.

• File a police report: For significant financial losses, contact your local police.

7. Stay Informed

Scammers are always coming up with new tricks, so staying informed is key:

• Sign up for alerts: The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and the Competition Bureau of Canada regularly share updates about new scams.

• Follow trusted sources: Organizations like the RCMP and local police departments often post scam warnings on social media.

8. Be Kind to Yourself

If you or a loved one falls victim to a scam, it’s easy to feel embarrassed or ashamed. But remember, scammers are professionals—they’re good at what they do. The important thing is to take action quickly, learn from the experience, and share your story to help others avoid the same fate.

Final Thoughts

Scams can happen to anyone, but with a little vigilance and some proactive steps, you can protect yourself and your family. By staying informed, verifying requests, and having open conversations, you’ll be better equipped to spot and avoid fraud. After all, the best defence against scams is a well-informed community.