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Fraudsters are constantly evolving their tactics, making it essential to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect your personal and financial information. By recognizing common fraud red flags, strengthening your digital security, and knowing how to report suspicious activity, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim. Explore these key fraud prevention tips to help safeguard yourself and your loved ones from scams.

Visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for more tips and best practices to protect yourself from fraud.

Secure devices and accounts

Keeping your devices secure is a crucial step in protecting your personal and financial information from fraudsters. Cybercriminals exploit outdated software, weak passwords, and unsecured networks to gain access to sensitive data. By regularly updating your devices, using strong passwords, enabling security features like two-factor authentication, and installing trusted security software, you can reduce your risk and keep your information safe from threats.

Use strong passcodes

• Make sure your device is password protected.
• Ensure the password, passphrase or PIN you use is strong and cannot be easily guessed.
• Configure your settings to ensure your device locks after a short period of time.
• Do not store your password on your device.
• Do not use a ‘life password’ (i.e., one password across multiple devices, apps, accounts, etc.).
• Ensure you change your password when you become aware of breaches.

Initiate two-factor authentication (2FA) or additional verification steps on your device and accounts

• Two-factor authentication (2FA) requires a second verification step—such as a code sent to your phone or an authentication app—that makes it harder for fraudsters to access your accounts, even if they have your password.
• Fraudsters may try to trick you into providing your 2FA code—never share it with anyone, and only enter it on official websites or apps.

Keep software updated

• Keep your device and computer software up to date by installing the updates provided by the manufacturer. Updates will often include “fixes” for newly identified issues. This will ensure that the security features are working to their maximum capabilities.
• Do not remove or alter any of the manufacturer’s security features.
• Only install software that comes from a trusted source.

Be vigilant while using devices

Your phone, tablet, and computer are essential tools for staying connected, but they can also be targets for fraudsters. Practicing safe habits when using telecommunications devices can help protect your personal information and help prevent scams. Follow these key tips to keep your data secure.

Know how you are connecting to the internet and your accounts

• Use only secure or trusted Wi-Fi networks.
• Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections when not in use.
• When using your mobile device or computer to log on to websites, make sure that you completely log out after each session.

Beware of unexpected (or unsolicited) messages and unknown sites

• Avoid visiting unsecured websites or downloading files from unknown sources.
• Do not click on any links in emails or text messages that seem suspicious, including emails or messages from someone that you do not know or that you were not expecting. For information on the types of emails and message to look out for click here.
• Learn how your trusted institutions will contact you about your account. Fraudsters often impersonate trusted organizations, government agencies, or even loved ones to trick you into sharing personal information. Understanding how legitimate institutions communicate with you can help you spot red flags. Banks, government agencies, and law enforcement will typically never pressure you to provide sensitive details over an unsolicited call, text, or email. If you receive a suspicious request, avoid responding or clicking on any links.
• Be aware of unsolicited calls, texts, or emails where the caller or sender asks you for personal information, including your name, address, birthdate, Social Insurance Number (SIN), or your credit card or banking information. If you receive an unexpected call or message alleging to be from your bank, law enforcement or a government agency, do not provide your personal information and instead hang up and make an outgoing call to the relevant institution (using the contact information on their website, not the information provided during the call or in the message) to determine if the call or message you received is legitimate.
• Be aware of unsolicited calls, texts, or emails where the caller or sender identifies themselves as a family member or friend urgently requiring assistance.

Additional usage tips

• When using your device or computer, look out for people staring over your shoulder. Use the same precautions that you would employ at an ATM and shield your device.
• Clear old devices of all personal data when recycling or transferring ownership of your used mobile device or computer.
• Contact your telecom provider if your device has been lost or stolen. This will allow them to put a block on your account and ensure that if it is found it can’t be used.
• Limit What You Share Online: Oversharing personal information on social media and other online platforms can make you an easy target for fraudsters. Fraudsters can use details like your full name, birthdate, address, or even posts about upcoming vacations to impersonate you or craft convincing scams. Adjust your privacy settings, be cautious about accepting friend requests from unknown individuals, and think twice before sharing any information publicly. Protecting your digital footprint is a key step in preventing fraud.