Resource Type: Parent

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)

Date of Publication: January 24, 2025

While many mobile wireless carriers have yet to announce their plans regarding the future of their 3G networks, we have received questions about 3G network discontinuation, what it means, and how it will impact mobile wireless users.

This FAQ has been created to answer common questions about 3G network discontinuation. It is important to note that each carrier will communicate their own 3G network discontinuation plans to its customers before it discontinues its 3G services.

What is 3G/HSPA?

3G/HSPA refers to a third generation of wireless access standards that allows mobile devices to connect to the internet and to place and receive voice calls. 3G was introduced in the early 2000s and has been followed by 4G LTE and, most recently, by the newest generation of wireless standards, 5G.

Why retire 3G/HSPA networks?

Canada’s mobile wireless carriers continually invest in enhancing their networks and deploying the latest technologies. In some cases, this requires the shutdown of older services, like 3G, so that spectrum and infrastructure used to provide the older services can be re-purposed for the provision and enhancement of more advanced technologies, like 4G LTE and 5G.

Upgrading to the latest 4G LTE or 5G devices offers numerous advantages, including significantly faster data speeds for seamless browsing, video/live streaming, and enabling high bandwidth demanding applications, as well as access to a wider range of advanced mobile applications and services. Newer technologies are also designed to consume less energy.

When will 3G networks in Canada be discontinued?

Each mobile wireless carrier will manage its 3G network in a manner that best suits its operational requirements and the needs of its customers. For this reason, each carrier develops its own plan for discontinuing its 3G network. Affected customers will be contacted by their service provider in advance of any discontinuance of 3G service.

Have any Canadian carriers announced a date for the discontinuation of their 3G networks?

As of the publication date above, Rogers has announced its plan to discontinue 3G services by July 31, 2025. Eastlink discontinued its 3G network in 2020. We will endeavour to update this question with any future 3G network retirement announcements.

Are other countries also discontinuing their 3G networks?

Yes, many countries, including the United States, Australia, and parts of Europe, have already begun or completed the process of discontinuing their 3G networks.

You can find our FAQ on U.S. mobile carriers discontinuation of 3G/HSPA network service here.

How will a 3G network discontinuation affect my mobile wireless services?

If your mobile device only supports 3G/HSPA network access, you will not be able to use voice services and you will be unable to connect to the internet using mobile data services where 3G/HSPA services are no longer offered. If you have a 4G LTE device that does not support Voice over LTE (VoLTE), you will not be able to make or receive voice calls on your service provider’s 4G LTE network. See the chart further down in this FAQ for further information.

In rare cases, some individuals may still be using a 3G SIM card in their 4G LTE-capable device. They would be required to upgrade their SIM card to continue to use voice and mobile data services.

What is Voice over LTE (VoLTE) calling?

Voice over LTE (VoLTE) allows customers with a compatible phone to place and receive voice calls over a 4G LTE or 5G network instead of a 3G/HSPA network. VoLTE enables faster call connection times and improved voice quality service.

Based on my device type, what services are impacted by the discontinuation of my service provider’s 3G network services?

How can I determine if I have a 3G/HSPA only device, or a 4G LTE device or 5G device that supports VoLTE?

There are several ways to determine what network standards your mobile device supports.

1. In your device settings look for your mobile network connection details. Depending on your device and the applicable operating system, you should be able to see a list of which type of network connections your device supports.
2. You can check the specifications for your device on your device manufacturer’s website or device documentation to determine what network connections it supports and whether it also supports VoLTE.
3. There are third-party websites, such as https://www.gsmarena.com/ (see Phone Finder tab), where you can check what network standards are supported by your mobile device.
4. If in doubt, you should consult the support pages of your service providers’ website or contact your service provider.

What should I do if I currently use a 3G device or a 4G device that does not support VoLTE?

If your service provider has not announced plans to discontinue its 3G network, you can continue to use your device as usual on your service provider’s 3G network. However, your ability to roam on other service providers’ networks when travelling outside your provider’s network area will be impacted if those service providers have retired their 3G networks. If you wish to use mobile voice and data services when 3G services are discontinued, you will need to upgrade your device.

How do I enable VoLTE calling on my device?

Follow the instructions below to enable VoLTE calling on your Apple iOS or Android OS device. Please note that if your device does not support VoLTE calling you will need to upgrade your device to make voice calls once your service provider discontinues 3G services. You can also consult the support pages of your device manufacturer and/or service provider for more information.

Apple iOS

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Cellular.
3. Select Cellular Data Options.
4. Select Voice & Data.
5. Select LTE, VoLTE ON.
6. Power down and restart device.

Android OS

Note: Settings may be different on some Android devices

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Connections.
3. Select Mobile networks.
4. Select VoLTE calls and turn it on.
5. Power down and restart device.

Can I still use my 3G device connected to Wi-Fi after 3G services are discontinued?

3G/HSPA service discontinuation should not impact your ability to use your device’s Wi-Fi capabilities when connected to a Wi-Fi network. However, to benefit from the full functionality of advanced networks, upgrading to a VoLTE-capable 4G LTE or 5G device is recommended.

How will the discontinuation of 3G services affect my ability to place 9-1-1 calls on my mobile phone?

As noted in the chart above, voice services (including 9-1-1) will not be supported on 3G/HSPA and 4G LTE (without VoLTE capability) devices when your service provider discontinues its 3G network. Upgrading to a VoLTE capable 4G LTE or 5G device will be required to access mobile voice services (including 9-1-1).

What if I need help transitioning to a new device?

Your service provider can assist you with upgrading to a new device.

How Canada’s telecommunications service providers are working to keep you connected

Click here to download this report.

Severe and destructive weather events and other natural disasters are becoming more frequent, with hurricanes and other high wind events, snow and ice storms, flooding, and wildfires being just some of the natural catastrophes that have struck communities across Canada in recent years.

Service providers are aware that Canadians depend on them to stay connected, especially during an emergency. That is why they have made it a priority to make their networks strong and resilient in the face of extreme weather and natural disasters.

When a severe weather event or other disaster is forecast, our members monitor and make extensive preparations, such as:

• Setting up an emergency operations centre
• Inspecting fibre and cable routes and where possible removing trees/limbs that pose risks
• Halting any non-essential network changes to avoid unnecessary disruptions
• Reducing power consumption at cell sites so that batteries and generator fuel last longer
• Fueling and testing generators and vehicles and ensuring sufficient fuel reserves
• Adding personnel and equipment from other regions to support the affected area
• Positioning generators and repair teams based on expected path of storm at critical parts of the network
• Contacting and coordinating with:
  • provincial Emergency Management Office (EMO)
  • power utilities
  • Federal, provincial, and local government officials
  • other network providers and local partners
• Communicating with customers about the storm via social media, SMS, email, and websites.

During an Event

While a severe weather event is in progress, service providers monitor their networks, manage, and reroute traffic flows as needed and identify any parts of the network that require repair work once it is safe to do so.

Service providers use their social media accounts, websites, and other tools to inform customers of material service disruptions.

As needed, our industry works with governments and other partners to coordinate restoration work. For example, we may work with power companies to prioritize the areas that need power restored before they can begin any necessary repairs.

If it’s safe to do so, crews are dispatched to assess damage, begin repairs, and if necessary, refuel generators and reposition back-up power generators to keep services running.

Restoration of Services

In many cases, internet and landline phone service outages are due to power outages in customers’ homes or businesses and once power is restored, internet and home phone services are automatically restored.

Where services are impacted by damage to network infrastructure, such as downed poles, cut cables, or damaged equipment, repairs begin immediately depending on public safety priorities and the ability to safely access impacted locations. This can include the repair or replacement of cables and equipment, and the repositioning, replacement, or optimization of wireless antennas to ensure ideal wireless coverage.

Where restoration is dependant on work being performed by others, such as power restoration, it may not be possible to provide accurate estimates on service restoration until that work is completed.

Safely restoring services is our member’s number one priority and restoration efforts continue until all customers have been reconnected.

How You Can Prepare for Extreme Weather and other Emergencies

Despite the extensive preparations made by our industry, power supply, poles and cables, and other equipment can still be impacted by extreme weather and other natural disasters, resulting in temporary service outages.

To prepare for such an event, there are steps you can take to protect you and your family.

To learn more please consult Preparing for Severe Weather Events & Other Emergencies.

Steps you can take to help protect you and your family

Click here to download this report.

Extreme weather events such as hurricanes, wildfires, and snow and ice storms are becoming more commonplace endangering Canadians, damaging property, and posing a risk to critical infrastructure, including telecommunications networks.

Canadian telecommunications providers are continually investing to strengthen their networks to better withstand extreme weather events and other natural disasters. They have also partnered with governments, public safety officials, power companies, and each other to help maintain connectivity when people need it most.

Despite these preparations, power supply, poles and cables, and other equipment can still be impacted, sometimes resulting in temporary service outages. To prepare, there are steps you can take to protect you and your family.

Prior to Event

1. Monitor Weather and Be Ready for Emergency Alerts

While some extreme weather events occur suddenly, most are forecasted days in advance. You can track approaching inclement weather in a variety of ways, such as smartphone weather apps, online weather services, and through local news.

Wireless Public Alerts (WPAs) are emergency alerts issued by authorized government and emergency management officials to warn the public about a variety of matters, including extreme weather events and natural disasters, and often provide directions from public safety authorities. More info on the Alert Ready system, including details on device compatibility can be found at www.alertready.ca.

2. Prepare for Power Outages

Even if telecommunications networks have not been damaged by a severe weather event, a power outage at your home or business can impact your ability to access the internet or make phone calls. To prepare for power outages:

➜ Fully charge devices

When you know a storm or other extreme event is approaching, make sure your devices, like your smartphone and laptop, are fully charged. It is helpful to have charged back up batteries or power banks, and extra chargers such as car chargers or solar powered charging devices.

➜ Backup Power Supply

While backup generators are the ultimate solution for home and business power outages, especially when an extreme weather event causes a prolonged outage, there are more affordable solutions, such as an Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS), that can power essential communications equipment like your internet modem, Wi-Fi router, and cordless phone.

➜ Understand your home phone service

Loss of power to your home will impact most home phone services (i.e., cordless phone and VoIP phone modems require power). You should determine if your phone or phone service rely on your home power supply. If they do, obtaining a backup power supply should be considered.

3. Create an Emergency Communications and Critical Information Plan

Create an emergency communications plan that includes the contact information of close family and friends, as well as direct phone numbers of local services (e.g., fire department, nearby hospital, police service, school, and veterinarian).

Periodically take photos and/or video of your property and valuable items for insurance purposes. Back up files and copies of important documents, like insurance policies, in secure storage such as a cloud storage service.

During Event and Recovery Period

4. Preserve Battery Power

While it can be tempting to use your devices for entertainment as you wait for power restoration, if you do not have a reliable source of backup power you should take steps to preserve battery power for as long as possible. These include:

• Adjusting the settings on your devices for low battery use and turn down screen brightness
• Turning off Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and location-based services when you don’t need them
• Using a battery-powered radio to get updates on local weather conditions and critical information from local emergency management authorities
• Only using your battery-powered devices for essential purposes

5. Help Reduce Network Congestion

During a large-scale emergency such as a natural disaster, mobile networks can become congested with an influx of mobile voice calls and data traffic. This can hinder people’s ability to contact emergency services and affect communications among emergency service personnel. To reduce network congestion:

• Do not use your mobile phone to make phone calls unless it is an emergency
• Use SMS/texting or email to connect with others. These services use less network capacity and may work even when phone service has been interrupted
• If you must make a phone call, keep your conversation as short as possible, and if your call is not connected wait at least 10 seconds before redialing
• Do not use mobile wireless networks for data-intensive uses, like streaming video or non-emergency related internet use

6. Placing 9-1-1 Calls

If you have a working landline phone and a mobile phone, use the landline phone to help reduce traffic on mobile networks.

Mobile phone service is designed for 9-1-1 calls to default to whatever wireless network is available. In other words, provided it has power and is within range of a wireless network, a mobile phone can make a 9-1-1 call even if your service provider does not have an operational cell tower nearby or your phone does not have a SIM card.

Due to increased network congestion because of the natural disaster or because your device is seeking an alternate service provider’s network, it may take a few seconds longer for your 9-1-1 call to connect. If your call is not immediately connected, wait a few seconds to allow your device to make a connection. If your call is not connected, hang up and wait 10 seconds before redialing. Do not immediately redial.

If you are still unable to successfully place a 9-1-1 call, try removing or turning off your device’s SIM card. In rare circumstances, the presence of the SIM card may prevent your device from connecting to an alternative service provider’s network.

Protecting your wireless rights 

The CRTC’s Wireless Code came into effect in December 2013 and was updated in 2017. It details the basic rights for all mobile wireless service consumers and small business customers and establishes rules that service providers must follow. 

The Wireless Code makes it easier for wireless consumers to:

• understand their mobile service plan;
• change providers;
• avoid unexpected charges; and
• determine if a service is right for them during a trial period

The full text of the Wireless Code can be seen here. Consumers may also consult their service providers’ website for more information about the Wireless Code.

Postpaid or prepaid?

A summary of differences in the way the Wireless Code addresses postpaid versus prepaid services can be found here.   

Accessible Wireless Code resources

A series of videos have been developed in American Sign Language (ASL) and Langue des signes québécoise (LSQ), which include voice-over and transcripts, to assist persons with a variety of disabilities understand their rights under the Wireless Code. These videos can be found here.    

File a report  

If you think that your rights under the Wireless Code are not being respected, you should first try to resolve the issue with your service provider. If you are unable to resolve the issue, you may contact the Commissioner for Complaints for Telecommunications Inc. at: 

Mail: P.O. Box 560067, Minto Place RO, Ottawa ON K1R 7Z1 

TTY: 1-877-782-2384 

Website: www.ccts-cprst.ca 

Email: [email protected] 

Toll-free: 1-888-221-1687 

Fax: 1-877-782-2924 

Protecting consumers’ internet rights

The CRTC’s Internet Code came into effect on January 31, 2020. It establishes the basic rights for retail fixed internet access service customers of facilities-based internet service providers listed in the Internet Code.  

The Internet Code was created to: 

• Make it easier for customers to obtain and understand the information in their internet service contracts; 
• Establish consumer-friendly business practices for the internet service industry; 
• Contribute to a dynamic internet service market; and  
• Further certain policy objectives set out in section 7 of the Telecommunications Act

The full text of the Internet Code can be seen here. Consumers may also consult their service providers’ website for more information about the Wireless Code.

Accessible Internet Code resources

A series of videos have been developed in American Sign Language (ASL) and Langue des signes québécoise (LSQ), which include voice-over and transcripts to assist persons with a variety of disabilities under their rights under the Internet Code. Videos can be found here.   

File a report  

If you think that your rights under the Internet Code are not being respected, you should first try to resolve the issue with your service provider. If you are unable to resolve the issue, you may contact the Commissioner for Complaints for Telecommunications Inc. at: 

Mail: P.O. Box 560067, Minto Place RO, Ottawa ON K1R 7Z1 

TTY: 1-877-782-2384 

Website: www.ccts-cprst.ca 

Email: [email protected] 

Toll-free: 1-888-221-1687 

Fax: 1-877-782-2924 

Keeping you connected in crisis

Mobile phones are an important part of everyday life — but in cases of an emergency, they can be a lifeline. The following resources provide helpful information on ways that mobile phones can be used to protect Canadians.

Wireless Public Alerting (WPA)

Wireless Public Alerting delivers critical and potentially lifesaving alerts to Canadians through their mobile devices. Learn more about Alert Ready and how emergency alerts can affect you here.

Text with 9-1-1 (T9-1-1)

T9-1-1 is available to you if you are part of the Deaf, deafened, Hard-of-Hearing or speech-impaired community in Canada. During an emergency, T9-1-1 provides 9-1-1 call centres with the ability to converse with you using text messaging.

Members of the community are encouraged to visit textwith911.ca to learn more about T9-1-1, including information about how to register with their service provider.

Enhanced 9-1-1 (E9-1-1)

Since 2010, the wireless industry and the public safety community have been providing further location identification information for Enhanced 9-1-1 (E9-1-1) service for cell phone users.

Previously, a 9-1-1 call taker would have received the cellular phone number and the location of the nearest cell site or cell tower when a call was placed to 9-1-1 from a cell phone. Now, in addition to the phone number, the call taker will receive more precise information based on the longitude and latitude coordinates of where the handset is located. This new technology provides the approximate location of the mobile handset but does not provide an exact “pinpoint location”.

Using your mobile phone in an emergency

Your mobile phone can be a lifeline in a crisis. Learn more about using your device in an emergency here.

About Wireless Number Portability

Wireless Number Portability (WNP) refers to a wireless consumer’s ability to change service providers within the same general metropolitan area or local calling area and keep their existing phone number. WNP also allows consumers to move a phone number from a wireline phone to a wireless phone and vice versa.

Frequently asked questions

Radiofrequencies and your health

Mobile communications devices such as smartphones have become much more pervasive over the last decade. Misinformation has continued to circulate, however, about the safety of exposure to wireless technology. Unfortunately, many of these misconceptions are based on previously debunked myths about radiofrequency (RF) energy.

In reality, the RF energy that mobile devices emit is both strictly regulated and hundreds of times below the limit at which health effects could occur. To make it easier for Canadians to access such up-to-date information on the topic, we have put together the following summary of facts about RF exposure, as well as the findings that government agencies and international bodies have reported to date.

To learn more about 5G Wireless and RF Safety, read our latest publication here.

Radiofrequency (RF) energy and wireless communications

Electromagnetic energy (EME) refers to the different kinds of energy released into space. Some EME, like energy released from the Sun and other stars, lightning, and the Earth’s magnetic field, is naturally occurring, while other types of EME, such as radar, TVs, mobile phones, microwaves and x-rays, is generated by human-made sources.

Radiofrequency (RF) energy is the form of EME used in communications technologies like television, radio and mobile phones. It has been used for more than 100 years beginning with the introduction of broadcast radio.

A brief overview of the electromagnetic spectrum can be found here.

Are RF energy and wireless communications safe?

The potential health effects of RF energy used for mobile phones and other wireless services has been studied for decades. Research by Health Canada and international bodies including the World Health Organization has produced no substantiated evidence of harmful effects from RF technologies used within existing safety standards. There is consequently no basis for finding that mobile wireless communications poses a health hazard to the Canadian public.

What do the experts say?

Please consult this page to see in more detail what government agencies and international bodies have to say about RF safety issues.

What is 5G?

5G or “fifth generation” refers to the next generation of mobile wireless standards and technologies. 5G will operate on the spectrum currently used by 3G and 4G devices, as well as frequencies above 6GHz, also known as millimetre wave (or mmWave) spectrum. These radio-frequencies are all considered to be low-energy frequencies and have been safely used in for years in multiple wireless applications. To learn more about 5G please visit www.5gcc.ca.

Is 5G Safe?

The advanced capabilities of 5G will result in even faster mobile data speeds, enable innovative new products and services, and help connect more Canadians to the internet. But as with the introduction of other new technologies, 5G can be the subject of misunderstanding and, in some cases, deliberate misinformation. Contrary to this misinformation, there are no established health risks from the radiofrequency waves used in 5G networks in accordance with applicable safety standards.

There is additionally no scientific basis for claims that the deployment of 5G infrastructure is related to the transmission of COVID-19. This has been confirmed by both Canadian and international authorities, including Health Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO).
5G devices and antenna systems in Canada will also remain subject to the same RF exposure standards as other wireless equipment, which already contain strict safety limits that cover 5G frequencies.

For more information on 5G, please refer to Setting the Record Straight on 5G Wireless & RF Safety.

How does the Government of Canada ensure your safety?

Canada’s approach to RF safety is among the most stringent in the world. Health Canada has established guidelines for safe exposure to RF energy, known as Safety Code 6 (SC6), which utilizes very conservative limits set at least 50 times below the threshold of any potential adverse health effects.

The exposure limits in Safety Code 6 are based on Health Canada’s ongoing research into radiofrequency health effects, RF research conducted by the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR), and reviews of the latest relevant scientific literature published around the world.

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) uses Safety Code 6 in setting its standards and regulations for RF exposure limits for wireless devices and associated infrastructure, such as antennas. All wireless devices must meet ISED’s requirements and be certified before being sold in Canada. Antenna installations must also meet ISED’s requirements at all times as a condition of a carrier’s license.

Canada’s mobile network operators consistently monitor their networks, and ISED audits wireless devices and antenna installations to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Are Canada’s RF safety standards similar to those in other countries?

Canada’s science-based safety standards are consistent with the safety standards used in other parts of the world, including the United States, the European Union, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

If RF energy is safe, why is there a need for safety standards?

RF energy is non-ionizing, meaning it does not affect the chemical bonds between cells and tissue. However, at high levels of exposure, RF energy can cause heating of the body. For this reason, governments set exposure limits. In Canada, those limits are at least 50 times below the level at which heating caused by RF energy is known to have an observed effect.

What is ‘Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity’?

At the same time as misinformation is being spread about the safety of RF energy, a number of people have claimed to experience health symptoms as a result of exposure to electromagnetic fields. Collectively, these symptoms are sometimes described as Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS).

As part of its review of scientific literature on the potential health effects of electromagnetic energy, Health Canada will continue to investigate the question of electromagnetic hypersensitivity. From its research to date, Health Canada has concluded that scientific evidence has “failed to show [the symptoms claimed as a result of EHS] are caused by exposure to electromagnetic fields.”

How can I limit my wireless RF exposure?

Health Canada does not call for taking specific steps to avoid RF from wireless networks, as exposure levels in Canada are far below the safety limits set by the federal government. Individuals may choose to limit their personal exposure to wireless RF, however, by shortening the length of wireless phone calls; substituting calls with text messages; or using accessories such as headsets, speakerphones or earpieces to increase the distance between a user and the device.

Canadians can also check the SAR rating (an indication of the amount of RF energy that the device emits) for specific mobile products. SAR ratings can be found using the Innovation Canada Radio Equipment List page and searching for the alphanumeric Certification Number printed on each device. (SAR values may not always represent the exact amount of RF energy absorbed during everyday use, since they are based on the energy that a device emits when on its highest power setting.)

Additional resources

• Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) – Radiofrequency Energy and Safety
• ISED – Facts About Towers
• Health Canada – Fact Sheet: What is Safety Code 6?
• Health Canada – Safety of Cell Phones and Cell Phone Towers
• FDA (U.S) – Scientific Evidence for Cell Phone Safety
• FCC (U.S.) – Frequently Asked Questions on RF Safety
• FCC (U.S.) – Chairman Proposes to Maintain Current Radiofrequency Exposure Safety Standards
• GSMA – Safety of 5G Networks
• Australian Government (ARPANSA) – Mobile Phone Base Stations and Health
• European Union — Health impact of 5G
• Cancer Research UK – Do mobile phones cause cancer?
• Ofcom (UK) – Exposure to electromagnetic fields
• Forbes – Is 5G Making You Sick? Here’s What Experts Say
• Telecoms – 5G conspiracy theories; what they are, why they are wrong and what can be done
• The Conversation – No, 5G radiation doesn’t cause or spread the coronavirus

Facts about towers and antennas

1. Importance of Wireless Infrastructure

Canadians depend on wireless networks to facilitate their digital interactions with family, friends, businesses, and the public sector. To provide as many regions and communities as possible with access to these networks, deploying wireless equipment remains a key part of building Canada’s communications infrastructure.

Due to the importance of wireless infrastructure in Canada, wireless sites and equipment are subject to a well-established framework of rules. Based on Health Canada’s Safety Code 6, these rules are continuously updated to stay consistent with international standards, and are used by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) to regularly audit wireless operators on a national basis.

2. Federal Regulations

Any time that a company wants to put up a wireless tower, they must follow a regulatory process that is designed to facilitate the deployment of telecom infrastructure while protecting the health and safety of Canadians. Under the authority of the Radiocommunication Act, ISED is the federal department responsible for overseeing the safe operation of wireless antenna towers and sites.

ISED requires all antenna systems to limit the level of radiofrequency energy (RF) that can be present in public spaces, consistent with the RF guidelines set out in Health Canada’s Safety Code 6 (which include large safety margins to protect the general public, as well as people working close to RF sources).

In some cases, companies may be required to engage in discussions with local land-use authorities (LUA) about the way that network equipment is built or located in particular areas, as well as to participate in public consultations facilitated by the LUA or through ISED’s Default Public Consultation Process. ¹

More details about these procedures – including the protocols that companies are to follow when installing wireless systems – can be found in the Radiocommunication and Broadcasting Antenna Systems (CPC-2-0-03) section of ISED’s website.

3. Exceptions to Rules

It is important to note that the following network-building activities may be exempt from the LUA review or public consultation aspects of the federal government’s rules.

Excluded activities:

• Installing new antenna systems where the height is no more than 15 metres above ground level. ²
• Modifying existing antenna systems, adding antennas, or replacing towers – so long as the height increase is less than 25%, and occurs at least one year after the initial construction. ³
• Working with non-tower structures (including attaching antennas to buildings, water towers, or lampposts) may not require consultation if the structure’s height is increased by less than 25%.
• Installing temporary antennas (i.e., for special events or emergencies) may be exempt from consultation if they are removed less than three months after the start of the event or emergency.
• Repairs on existing antenna will not usually require consultation before the maintenance work is performed.

3.5 Joint Industry/Municipality Guidelines

In 2013, the CWTA and Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) co-authored a series of recommendations to help guide the deployment of antenna systems in Canadian municipalities (the Joint Protocol). This document offers a template for companies and local authorities to follow so that they can more efficiency deploy antenna systems while respecting community concerns.

In 2014, the federal rules governing how companies install antenna systems in Canada were updated by ISED to include new procedures that closely mirror the Joint Protocol Template developed by the CWTA and FCM.

The CWTA/FCM Joint Template is available through FCM’s website, along with a short summary explaining the document and its relevance to the installation of wireless sites and equipment.

4. More Information

More information on Canada’s wireless safety rules – and how they apply to the antenna siting process – can be found by contacting ISED or an applicable land-use authority, or by consulting the list of resources below:

• Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) – Facts About Towers
• ISED – Radiocommunication and Broadcasting Antenna Systems procedures (CPC-2-0-03)
• ISED – Guide to Assist Land-Use Authorities in Developing Antenna System Siting Protocols
• ISED – Conditions of Licence for Mandatory Roaming and Antenna Tower and Site Sharing
• Health Canada – Cell Phone Towers and Antennas
• Health Canada – Safety Code 6
• Health Canada – Radiofrequency Fields
• Health Canada – Research on Radiofrequency Energy and Health

¹ ISED defines a land-use authority (LUA) as a “local authority that governs land-use issues”, including municipalities, town councils, regional commissions, development authorities, township boards, and band councils.

² This exception does not apply to telecom carriers, commercial broadcasters, or third-party tower owners.

³ Does not apply to carriers, commercial broadcasters, or third-party tower owners, nor to antenna support structures that are less than 15m above ground level.

Buying used mobile phones safely

Purchasing a pre-owned mobile phone can be a great way to save money, but as is the case when purchasing any used item, care should be taken to make sure you receive what you expected. 

When purchasing a pre-owned mobile device, you should only buy from people or retailers you know and trust.  For example, many wireless service providers sell refurbished phones and provide return policies and warranties.  

One of the risks of buying a pre-owned device, especially from an individual or retailer with whom you are not familiar, is that the device may have been obtained illegally or may be a device that was otherwise lost by the previous owner. You can determine if the device you wish to purchase has been reported lost or stolen in Canada and entered into a device blacklist by checking the device’s IMEI number at www.devicecheck.ca. A device with a blacklisted IMEI number will not function on participating Canadian networks.   

On most devices you can find the IMEI number by dialing *#06# on the phone function keypad . Please check the device manufacturer’s website for other information on how to obtain the device IMEI number. 

Lost or stolen device 

If your mobile device or SIM card is lost or stolen, you should contact your wireless provider immediately. Some service providers allow you to suspend your device or SIM card. Service providers can also add your device to the national list of lost or stolen mobile devices so that it can’t be used on any network in Canada. 

If your device was stolen report the theft to the police.  

You should also update all of your passwords used for online access to banking, social media, retail, and other sites. Also contact your financial institution as it may use your mobile number for banking website authentication. 

Protect yourself

To reduce the risk of theft: 

• Keep your device locked with a strong password or code; 
• Consider using phone features or apps that allow you to track the location of your device and erase data if your device is lost or stolen; 
• Keep a record of your phone’s IMEI number, PIN number, phone number, make and model, colour and any other appearance details. The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number can be obtained on most phones by dialing *#06# on your device; and  

Keep confidential information safe

As mobile devices and personal computers are being used to do more each year, it is important that you take the necessary steps to protect your personal and confidential information. Below are just some of the steps you can take to protect your data. More information on protecting yourself can be found at www.getcybersafe.ca. 

Passwords are a must

• Make sure that your device is password protected. 
• Ensure that the password, passphrase or PIN that you use is strong and cannot be easily guessed. 
• Configure your settings to ensure that your device locks after a short period of time. 

Keep track of important information 

• For mobile devices, have your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number written down or stored somewhere safe (you may access this number by typing *#06# into your device or by looking on the back of your device behind the battery). 

Software security is critical 

• Keep device and computer software up to date. 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. 
• Do not install any illegal software or software that does not come from a trusted source. For more information software used by cyber criminals to infect systems and devices and steal information, click here.

The right app can help 

• Consider using an application that will allow you to locate and remove/erase data from your device remotely in the event of loss/theft. 
• Review all requests for access permissions carefully when installing applications and software. 

Keep your eyes open for red flags 

• 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.
• Beware 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.  
• For more information on protecting yourself from scams and frauds visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website here.

Usage tips 

• Clear the device of all personal data when recycling your cell phone or computer.  
• When using your mobile device or computer to log on to websites, make sure that you completely log out after each session. 
• Use only secure Wi-Fi networks. 
• Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections when not in use. 

Watch out for “shoulder surfing” 

• 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. 

Always have a backup plan 

• Back up important files and information that you wouldn’t want to permanently lose. 
• Check out device insurance options with your wireless service provider. 

Facts about 5G and aviation in Canada

There have been media reports of concerns in the United States regarding the potential for interference between radiofrequencies used for 5G and the operation of aircraft radio altimeters.

The following sets out the facts regarding the situation in Canada:

• Radio altimeters are instruments used in aircraft to measure distance from the ground (altitude). They are authorized to operate in the 4200-4400 MHz spectrum band.
• Recent media reports in the United States relate to spectrum being used for 5G in the 3700 to 3980 MHz frequency band (within the so-called C-Band). This band is currently not authorized for use with cellular services in Canada.
• In Canada, cellular services have been authorized to operate in the 3450-3650 MHz range (also referred to as the 3500 MHz band). This means that the 3500 MHz band is separated by at least 550 MHz from the frequencies used by altimeters, thus providing ample separation.
• This “buffer zone” is twice the amount of separation provided by the C-Band used in the United States. It is also over 100 MHz more separation than in Europe, which uses the 3400-3800 MHz range of the C-Band for 5G services.
• Internationally, C-Band spectrum is already being used in nearly 40 countries and hundreds of thousands of 5G base stations with no reported incidents impacting aviation. This includes, for example, Japan, where the separation is only 100 MHz.
• The 3500MHz band has been safely used in Canada for years for fixed wireless communications.
• Recent statements from regulators around the world have confirmed the lack of reported incidents of interference from C-Band spectrum impacting aircraft radio altimeters:
  
  
  • UK regulator Ofcom: “We can’t comment on how airwaves are allocated by authorities in other countries. But in the UK, 5G and other mobile services have been used in airwaves alongside altimeters for some years with no reported cases of interference in UK airspace.” 
    See statement here.
    
    
  • Norway’s Telecom Regulator (January 2022): “The 5G networks now being developed in Norway and Europe use lower frequencies than in the US and other parts of the world. The frequencies we use have a greater distance from those used in the altimeters in aircraft, and we therefore do not have the same problem”. In addition, it also states: “authorities are not aware on reported interference from 5G to the altimeters, and 5G deployment has been ongoing for several years in Europe and the rest of the world. In Japan where they currently use frequencies closest to the altimeters, tens of thousands of 5G base stations have been taken in use. As far as Nkom is aware, no interference has been reported there”. 
    Full statement here.
    
    
  • U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (May 2023 Bulletin): “There have not yet been proven reports of harmful interference due to wireless broadband operations internationally, although this issue is continuing to be studied. In the United States, there has been wireless broadband deployment in the 3.65-3.7 GHz band since 2007. The FCC started a proceeding to authorize mobile broadband service in the 3.55-3.7 GHz band in December 2012 and adopted final rules in April 2015 and October 2018. Commercial deployment started in September 2019, with no known issues for altimeters to date.” 
    Full statement here.
    
    
  • European Union Aviation Safety Agency (oversees civil aviation in 31 EU countries): “The technical data received from EU manufacturers offers no conclusive evidence for immediate safety concerns at this time… EASA is not aware of any in-service incidents caused by 5G interference.” 
    See quotes here.
    
    
  • German Federal Telecom Regulator (January 2022): underlines how measurements carried out in France and Norway “have shown that there has been no concrete influence on the instruments so far”. 
    Reports here.
    
    
• Notwithstanding the absence of any reported instances of interference in other countries and the larger separation between the 3500 MHz band and the frequencies used by altimeters, the Government of Canada has, out of an abundance of caution, imposed restrictions regarding the use of 3500 MHz spectrum in the vicinity of airports, as well as requirements regarding the positioning of antennas across the country (see: https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/eng/sf11747.html).
• The government has indicated that these rules may be amended pending further study and testing.
• Canada’s wireless industry continues to work with the government and aviation industry to further study this issue and ensure that any rules regarding the use of spectrum are evidence-based.

Starting in February 2022, U.S. carriers will be phasing out their 3G/HSPA wireless network service in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands). This discontinuation of service will impact Canadian mobile wireless subscribers who are travelling in the U.S. and are using a mobile device that does not support 4G LTE data and Voice over LTE (VoLTE) roaming.

This FAQ is provided for general information purposes only and is current only as of the published/updated date indicated below. For specific questions about how the U.S. 3G network service discontinuation may impact you please check your service providers support web pages or contact you service provider directly.

FAQs:

What is a 3G wireless network?

3G/HSPA refers to a third generation of wireless access standards that allows mobile devices to connect to the internet and to place and receive voice calls. 3G was introduced in the early 2000s and has been followed by 4G LTE and, most recently, by the newest generation of wireless standards, 5G.

When will the U.S. carriers be discontinuing their 3G network services in the U.S.?

AT&T has announced that its 3G/HSPA network service will be discontinued by February 2022.

T-Mobile has announced that its 3G/HSPA network service will be discontinued as of July 1, 2022.

Verizon uses a different 3G standard, known as CDMA. CDMA is no longer supported by Canadian wireless service providers so the shutdown of its CDMA network, also expected to be in 2022, will not impact Canadian mobile wireless subscribers.

I am a subscriber to a Canadian wireless service provider, why should I be aware of U.S. 3G network service discontinuation?

When travelling in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) Canadian subscribers are able to connect to the internet and make and receive mobile voice calls by accessing the mobile wireless networks of U.S. service providers. This is referred to as “roaming”.

If your mobile device only supports 3G/HSPA network access, you will not be able to use voice services and you will be unable to connect to the internet and use mobile data services on AT&T and T-Mobile networks once their 3G network services are discontinued. If you have a 4G LTE device that does not support Voice over LTE (VoLTE) roaming, you will not be able to make or receive voice calls on AT&T or T-Mobile mobile networks.

Provided you have a compatible device, wireless services will continue to be available on U.S. carrier 4G LTE and 5G networks when roaming in the U.S.A.

See “Based on my device type, what services are impacted by the 3G network discontinuation?” below for more details.

How can I determine if I am on AT&T or T-Mobile’s 3G / HSPA network when roaming?

Near the battery icon on the display screen on most mobile devices there will be a 3G / HSPA network identifier shown when connected to a 3G/HSPA network. You will typically see an LTE or 4G carrier network identifier if you are using a 4G LTE-capable device and connected to a 4G LTE network.

What is Voice over LTE (VoLTE) Roaming?

Voice over LTE (VoLTE) allows customers with a compatible phone to place and receive voice calls over a 4G LTE network instead of a 3G/HSPA network. VoLTE enables faster call connection times and improved voice quality service. VoLTE roaming is placing and receiving voice calls while accessing the network of a service provider that is not your home service provider. Check your 4G LTE compatible mobile device specifications to confirm it supports VoLTE roaming. If you have an older LTE device, you may need to update your device software.

What do I need to do to enable VoLTE on my VoLTE roaming compatible device?

Some devices will default automatically to having the 4G LTE and VoLTE service selected. For other devices you have to enable 4G LTE and VoLTE service in the device settings.

For details on how to check the settings on your device to ensure both 4G LTE and VoLTE service are turned on, visit your device manufacturer’s support pages.

Select service provider VoLTE information can be found by clicking on the service provider below:

Bell Mobility
Rogers
TELUS
Videotron
SaskTel
Tbaytel
Virgin Mobile
Fido
Eastlink

Based on my device type, what services are impacted by the discontinuation of the U.S. 3G network services when I am travelling in the U.S.?

How can I tell if I have a 3G/HSPA only device or a 4G LTE device that supports VoLTE?

There are a number of ways to determine what network standards your mobile device supports.

1. In your device settings look for your mobile network connection details. Depending on your device and the applicable operating system, you should be able to see a list of which type of network connections your device supports.
2. You can check the specifications for your device on your device manufacturer’s website or device documentation to determine what network connections it supports and whether it also supports VoLTE.
3. There are third party websites, such as https://www.gsmarena.com/ (see Phone Finder tab), where you can check what network standards are supported by your mobile device.
4. If in doubt, you should consult the support pages of your service providers’ website or contact your service provider.

How can I determine if my device will still work on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks after they discontinue 3G/HSPA network service?

Question 7 above provides a general overview of what services are impacted based on your device type. If you still have questions, you should contact your service provider directly to determine if your device will continue to work on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks after they discontinue 3G/HSPA services.

What should I do if my phone will no longer work on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks following their discontinuation of 3G / HSPA network services?

If you wish to use mobile voice and data services while travelling in the U.S. you will need to upgrade your device to one that is Voice over LTE (VoLTE) roaming compatible. Contact your service provider to learn more about what upgrade options are available to you.

Compatible 4G LTE devices (without Voice over LTE roaming capabilities) will continue to be able to use data services (but not voice call services) when in the 4G LTE network coverage on AT&T and T-Mobile.

I have a 5G phone, will it continue to work on AT&T and T-Mobile networks?

Yes, 5G phones will be able to work on AT&T and T-Mobile 4G/LTE and compatible 5G networks. If in doubt, you can check the specifications for your device on the device manufacturer’s website.

If my device will no longer work on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks, can I still use my mobile device connected to Wi-Fi when travelling in the U.S.?

The AT&T and T-Mobile 3G/HSPA network service discontinuation should not impact your ability to use your device’s Wi-Fi capabilities when connected to a Wi-Fi network.

Where can I find more information about how the U.S. 3G/HSPA network shutdown will impact me?

Visit your service provider’s web site for further details or contact your service provider.

The following is a list of service provider web pages on the topic that are known to us as of the publication date of this FAQ:

Bell: www.bell.ca/HSPANetwork
Eastlink: https://my.eastlink.ca/us-3g-wireless-network-shutdown
Fido (Postpaid): https://www.fido.ca/support/mobility/3g-shutdowns-postpaid
Fido (Prepaid): https://www.fido.ca/support/mobility/3g-shutdowns-prepaid
Rogers: https://www.rogers.com/support/mobility/3g-shutdowns-postpaid
Rogers (Pay As You Go): https://www.rogers.com/support/mobility/3g-shutdowns-pay-as-you-go
SaskTel: https://support.sasktel.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/26048/~/wireless-network-changes-in-the-united-states-%282022%29
Solo: https://www.solomobile.ca/hspanetwork/
Tbaytel: https://www.tbaytel.net/Support/FAQ/mobility3-at
Virgin Plus: www.virginplus.ca/HSPANetwork