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Fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to obtain consumers’ personal information and to use that information to access bank and other financial accounts, open new credit accounts, or apply for loans. They can also use this information to take over your email or social media accounts to create convincing phishing attacks that convince others to reveal even more sensitive data.

Fraudsters exploit all available means, including voice, text, and online communications to target individuals, making it critical for you to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect yourself.

Telecom providers’ anti-fraud initiatives

Telecom providers are committed to protecting Canadians from fraud through advanced network-level security measures, consumer education, and close collaboration with law enforcement and other stakeholders.

Common types of fraud

Fraudsters’ methods are constantly evolving and often rely on manipulation and technology to steal personal and financial information from targeted consumers. Understanding these tactics is the first step in protecting yourself from falling victim to scams and fraud.

Tips to protect yourself

Fraudsters use sophisticated tactics to deceive consumers, but by staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can help reduce your risk. This page outlines key strategies to help you recognize scams, strengthen your security, and take action if you suspect fraud.

What to do if you’ve been targeted by fraud

If you’ve been targeted by fraud, acting quickly can help minimize damage and prevent further harm. Learn what steps to take—such as stopping communication, securing your accounts, and reporting the incident—to protect yourself and others from scams.

Additional resources

Visit the following webpages for additional resources to help protect against fraud:

• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre – The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) collects information on fraud and identity theft and provides information on past and current scams affecting Canadians.
• Canadian Centre for Cyber Security – The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (the Cyber Centre) is part of the Communications Security Establishment Canada. It is the single unified source of expert advice, guidance, services and support on cyber security for Canadians.
• GetCyberSafe.ca – Get Cyber Safe is a national public awareness campaign created to inform Canadians about cyber security and the simple steps they can take to protect themselves online.
• Identity theft, spam and fraud – Protect yourself against identity theft, fraud and spam. Discover Canada’s anti-spam legislation and learn how to recognize electronic threats and report them. Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)
• Scam Alerts – New scams pop up every day and some offers are too good to be true. How do you know if the person or the organization contacting you is who they say they are? Find out about some of the methods scammers use and how to protect yourself. Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)
• Scams and fraud – Learn the signs so you can protect yourself from scammers. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
• Spam Reporting – Canadians can report spam to the Spam Reporting Centre. Contact your local law enforcement if you have been threatened, are a victim of a crime, or fear for anyone’s safety. Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)