Protect yourself from scams and fraud
Stay informed about potential fraud, scams, and warning signs. Learn how to protect yourself with helpful tips and official resources.
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What to do if you are a victim of a fraud or scam
Fraud is a more serious crime that includes scams, but also things like stealing your Social Insurance Number or your banking information. Both are ways people lie to get something that is not theirs.
A scam is when someone tries to trick you to steal your money or personal information—like through fake emails.
Not sure a message from the Government of Canada is real?
- Call 1-800-OCANADA
- Contact local police to report the event
- If you’ve been scammed, had your identity stolen, or see something that does not look right, visit What to do if you’re a victim of fraud
- If you suspect you’ve been targeted, you can report fraudulent calls to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or by calling 1-888-495-8501
- If you or someone you know had personal or financial information stolen without permission, report it right away
Be aware of fraud and scams
Stay informed about common scams and tricks used by fraudsters and know how to protect yourself. Fraudsters may try to trick you by pretending to be someone from the government by contacting you by phone, email, text, or online.
Learn more about scams and fraud targeting government programs and benefits.
Social Insurance Number (SIN) fraud
Your SIN is private and very important. Fraudsters may say your SIN has been used in a crime or is being suspended. This is false.
- What to do: Never share your SIN unless it’s legally required
- For a complete list of what to do and what not to do, visit the SIN code of practice
- Learn how to protect your SIN
Scams related to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
Some fraudsters pretend to be from the CRA. They might say you owe taxes or will be arrested if you don’t pay right away. They may ask for payment by gift card, Bitcoin, or wire transfer. This is always fake.
Learn more about CRA Scams and fraud, how to protect yourself from suspicious activity, suspected tax cheating, how the CRA secures compromised accounts and how to verify it’s the CRA calling.
Scams related to Service Canada
Some types of scams may appear to come from Service Canada asking for your SIN, personal, or financial information.
- Service Canada will not ask for your information in this way
- Learn more about unauthorized and misleading communications and how to protect yourself from scams
Email, text, and phone scams
Scammers often pretend to be from banks, delivery companies, or government offices. They might send you links or ask you to call back.
- Don’t click on suspicious links and check for warning signs
- Hang up the phone if something doesn’t feel right
Smart tip: If unsure, call the real organization using a number you find yourself (never the one they give you).
Tips to protect your personal information
- keep your SIN safe
- be careful with calls or messages that pressure you or ask for money
- don’t be afraid to say no or hang up
- change your passwords often
- only share your personal or financial information if you’re sure who you’re talking with
- check your bank account and credit card statements often
- look for any charges you didn’t make and report them right away
- Monitor your CRA account regularly
- talk to someone you trust if you’re unsure about something
If you need help managing your account, learn how to appoint a trusted representative and stay secure.
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