Get Fraud Smart with This Dos and Don'ts Checklist
Written by Kelley Keehn

Friday, March 12th, 2021

An unfortunate constant in our lives today is organized fraudsters trying everything they can to find new ways to trick us out of our hard-earned dollars.

Here are the latest fallout numbers from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre:

The impact of COVID-19 fraud

Between March 6, 2020 and January 31, 2021

  • Canadian reports of COVID-19 fraud: 11,502
  • Canadian victims of COVID-19 fraud: 9,797
  • Lost to COVID-19 fraud: $7 million

The impact of fraud so far this year

As of January 31, 2021

  • Canadian reports of fraud: 4,833 (68,452 in all of 2020)
  • Canadian victims of fraud: 3,313 (40,612 in all of 2020)
  • Lost to fraud: $10.1 million ($106.4 million in all of 2020)

Now is a great time to refresh some dos and don'ts to protect you and your family against the scammers, with tips from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

When it Comes to Being Fraud Aware

Do:

  •  Ask questions

  •  Request information in writing

  •  Google suspicious phone numbers or organizations

  •  Watch out for urgent pleas that play on your emotions

  •  Hang up if you're feeling uncomfortable

  •  Talk to friends and family

Don't:

  •  Be afraid to say no

  •  React impulsively

  •  Feel intimidated by high pressure sales tactics

  •  Assume your call display is correct

  •  Give out personal information

  •  Respond to questions about confirming or updating your personal or financial information

Cyber Security Dos and Don'ts

Do:

  •  Protect your computer by ensuring your operating system and security software are up-to-date

  •  Protect your online accounts, use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication when possible

  •  Secure your devices and internet connections with passwords, biometrics, locking your phone

  •  Only visit websites you trust

  •  Disable your webcam or storage devices when not in use

  •  If you're having problems with your computer or device, bring it to a trusted local technician

Don't:

  •  Click pop-ups or links in emails with spelling and formatting errors from unknown sources

  •  Download suspicious attachments

  •  Give anyone remote access to your computer

  •  Use public Wi-Fi

  •  Leave your phone unattended

Share now

Related posts

How identity theft happens — and how to keep your accounts safe
How identity theft happens — and how to keep your accounts safe
October 4th, 2023 | Nick Patch
The 'new normal' of higher interest rates: A Q&A with Tangerine's Chief Financial Officer
The 'new normal' of higher interest rates: A Q&A with Tangerine's...
September 26th, 2023 | Tangerine
Pro budgeting tips from TikTok influencer Rimi
Pro budgeting tips from TikTok influencer Rimi
August 2nd, 2023 | Maria Hyde
Legal Stuff
This article or video (the “Content”), as applicable, is provided by independent third parties that are not affiliated with Tangerine Bank or any of its affiliates. Tangerine Bank and its affiliates neither endorse or approve nor are liable for any third party Content, or investment or financial loss arising from any use of such Content.
The Content is provided for general information and educational purposes only, is not intended to be relied upon as, or provide, personal financial, tax or investment advice and does not take into account the specific objectives, personal, financial, legal or tax situation, or particular circumstances and needs of any specific person. No information contained in the Content constitutes, or should be construed as, a recommendation, offer or solicitation by Tangerine to buy, hold or sell any security, financial product or instrument discussed therein or to follow any particular investment or financial strategy. In making your financial and investment decisions, you will consult with and rely upon your own advisors and will seek your own professional advice regarding the appropriateness of implementing strategies before taking action. Any information, data, opinions, views, advice, recommendations or other content provided by any third party are solely those of such third party and not of Tangerine Bank or its affiliates, and Tangerine Bank and its affiliates accept no liability in respect thereof and do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of any information in the third party Content. Any information contained in the Content, including information related to interest rates, market conditions, tax rules, and other investment factors, is subject to change without notice, and neither Tangerine Bank nor its affiliates are responsible for updating this information.
Tangerine Investment Funds are managed by Tangerine Investment Management Inc. and are only available by opening an Investment Fund Account with Tangerine Investment Funds Limited. These firms are wholly owned subsidiaries of Tangerine Bank. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.