Protecting your financial information in the event of a data breach
A data breach happens when a fraudster hacks into a computing resource. For example, your computer or your financial institution or services company’s database.
Once introduced into the resource, the fraudster tries to steal your personal or financial information. With this information, they may access your accounts and steal your money. They may also try to borrow money in your name.
Protecting yourself from a data breach
If a fraudster has recently hacked your financial institution or a company you deal with, you may be at risk.
Protect yourself from fraud by following these tips:
- change your passwords regularly
- review your bank account and credit card statements on a regular basis
- make sure there are no unauthorized transactions
- report any unauthorized transactions immediately
- order or access your credit report and review it
- report any errors on your credit report immediately
If you’re a victim of a data breach
If you’re a witness or victim of a data breach or other types of fraud, report it quickly.
- contact your financial institution and any other companies where your account has been compromised
- contact Canada’s 2 main credit bureaus:
- ask the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit report. Lenders will need to contact you and confirm your identity before they approve any application for credit
- contact your local police to report the incident
Report the fraud to the National Fraud Reporting System
If you’ve been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it to the National Fraud Reporting System. This centralized system is jointly managed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. It helps law enforcement agencies across Canada track and investigate fraudulent activities.
Other types of fraud
There are various types of fraud you should look out for.
Cybercrime
Cybercrime includes crimes committed using Internet and information technologies. This includes computers, tablets or smartphones. You may protect yourself online by securing your accounts, devices and connections.
Learn more about cyber security.
Identity theft and fraud
Identity theft occurs when a fraudster steals your personal information. Identity fraud happens when a fraudster uses that stolen personal information to commit another crime.
Learn more about identity theft and fraud.
Credit card fraud
Credit card fraud happens when someone uses your credit card or credit card information without your permission.
Learn more about credit card fraud.
Debit card fraud
Debit card fraud happens when someone uses your debit card or debit card information without your permission.
Learn more about debit card fraud.
Real estate fraud
There are different types of real estate fraud. For example; title fraud, foreclosure fraud and mortgage fraud. This happens when fraudsters attempt to steal the title to your home to resell or refinance it.
Learn more about real estate fraud.