Fraud Prevention Month – Protect yourself from scams

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, March 5, 2024   1:03 pm

(Ottawa) – Each year, Canadians lose millions of dollars to fraud. Educating yourself on common scams is the easiest way to prevent becoming a victim of one. 

• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t fall for high pressure sales tactics that don’t allow you to think over a decision or that require you to provide personal, banking or credit card information before you have even accepted an offer. Any reputable company will put the offer in writing and give you time to think it over. 

• Do your due diligence. Check companies with the Better Business Bureau, ask for references and visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to find out about the latest scams and where they are active. Taking a little time is worth the effort if it avoids you becoming a victim. 

• If you didn’t request a service, don’t accept unsolicited offers by phone, computer or at your doorstep. Always do your homework first to ensure you are dealing with a reputable company and get a contract with the scope of work being done, a timeline and the fees. 

• No government agency or legitimate business will ask you to purchase gift cards or bitcoin in order to settle an account. 

• Be careful where you share your personal information, particularly on social media. Over-sharing personal details can make it easier for fraudsters to make false credit applications in your name. 

• Scams work because fraudsters don’t give you time to think about what is being asked. Call a trusted family member to discuss it or call your local police service. 

• Talk about common types of fraud with friends and family, especially older and vulnerable people.

If you have been a victim of fraud, please make a report online with the Ottawa Police Service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by phone at 1-888-495-8501 (toll-free).

You can read more about scams and tips to protect yourself. You can also visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for information on popular scams and the Toronto Police Service for tips on how to protect yourself from scams.

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Through the Community Safety Data portal data.ottawapolice.ca, members of the public can view, download, and interact with data released by Ottawa Police Service.

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