Fraud is becoming more sophisticated all the time. No matter what tactics scammers use, they rely on one thing: catching people off guard.
But you can take practical steps to help protect yourself and learn how to take action when you suspect fraud.
Even as fraud tactics continue evolving, these proactive security habits can help foil fraudsters.
- Take your time: Urgency is a common fraud tactic.
- Think before you click: Hover over links to see if they look authentic and be cautious with attachments.
- Choose strong passwords: Ensure you are choosing strong passwords using a mix of letters, numbers and special characters, and never re-use passwords across multiple accounts.
- Check on your accounts: Review your bank statements, online portals and credit score regularly for unusual activity.
- Protect your credentials: Never share passwords or one-time codes with anyone. These codes should only be used by you at the moment you are trying to log in to a legitimate website or app.
- Use strong authentication: Enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
- Limit oversharing: Personal and work details shared on social media can be used to craft convincing and personalized scams.
- Protect your computer: Install and routinely update anti-virus and anti-malware software.
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to fraud, you can act quickly and take the right steps to help limit its impact.
If something feels suspect, end the conversation right away.
Talk to trusted friends, family or colleagues who may be able to validate your concerns and help you decide on next steps – you should never feel guilty, embarrassed or ashamed if you’ve fallen victim to a scam.
Calmly gather information about the suspected fraud. Include documents, receipts and copies of emails or text messages.
Change your passwords – with special attention where you may still be using the same password across multiple accounts. Let service providers know that your identity or accounts may be compromised.
Report fraud quickly to help limit its impact and protect yourself and others. Inform your bank, local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud CentreOpens a new website in a new windowOpens a new website in a new window right away. If the fraud involves a Canada Life product or service, or a call or correspondence that appears to be from Canada Life, report it to us .
Stay one step ahead of the latest fraud schemes we’re seeing at Canada Life.
Staying informed and learning to recognize the warning signs of common scams will help you act quickly and confidently when you encounter something questionable.
Get detailed descriptions of common scams and practical tips to help you spot suspicious behaviour and protect yourself.
Concerned it might be fraud? Let us know right away.