Simple, practical advice to help you stay safe — and know what to do if something does not feel right.
The internet is a wonderful tool — but unfortunately, some people try to use it to trick others. The good news is that once you know what to look out for, you can protect yourself very well. This page explains the most common tricks in plain, simple language.
Remember: being cautious is always the right thing to do. It is completely okay to hang up the phone, close a website, or say "I need to think about it." You will never be judged for taking your time.
Using new technology, a scammer can make their voice sound exactly like your grandchild or another loved one. They may say they are in trouble and need money urgently. Always hang up and call your family member back directly on their normal number before doing anything.
You might receive an email that looks like it is from your bank, the government, or a company you know. These emails often ask you to click a link or share personal information. Real organizations will never ask for your password or banking details by email.
Computers can now create very realistic fake photos and videos of real people. These might be used to spread false news or to embarrass someone. If you see something shocking online, it is worth checking with a trusted person before believing or sharing it.
A message might suddenly appear on your screen saying "Your computer has a virus — call this number immediately!" This is almost always a trick. Do not call the number. Close the window (or turn off your computer) and ask someone you trust for help.
If you receive an unexpected call, email, or message, go through this checklist. If you answer "yes" to any of these, stop and speak to a trusted person first.
Did someone contact me out of the blue, asking for money or personal information?
Is the caller asking me to keep this a secret from my family?
Am I being told to act right now, without time to think?
Does the caller sound different from how my family member usually sounds?
Is the email address slightly wrong — for example, "Amaz0n.ca" instead of "Amazon.ca"?
Is the offer too good to be true, like winning a prize I never entered?
Am I being asked to pay with gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency?
Does something about this just not feel right?
It can happen to anyone. There is no shame in it — these scams are designed by professionals to fool people. Here is what to do:
Do not reply to the message, do not call back, and do not send any money. Stopping contact is the most important first step.
Call a family member, a close friend, or a neighbour right away. You do not have to handle this alone.
If you shared any banking or card details, call your bank's fraud line immediately. The number is on the back of your bank card.
You can report scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. Reporting helps protect other people in your community.