Scams and Frauds

If you’re reading an ad offering you the opportunity to make “thousands” a week by working at home, receiving a phone call informing you that you’ve won a dream vacation or getting an email about an “amazing” weight loss plan, you should be wary. Scam artists are lurking and, if you’re not careful, you could lose money and important private information.

This section gives you the tools to protect yourself against scam operators in the marketplace. Learn about different types of scams and how to avoid being taken advantage of. And if you’ve fallen victim to a scam, find out what you can do about it.

Consumer Beware List
Search the database to find complaints made against businesses.

Popular Tactics To Avoid
A checklist of ploys to stay away from.

Popular Scams
Did you get phone calls about winning a dream vacation? Or get pop-up screens on your computer urging you to claim a prize? Beware!

Gift Card Scam
Tips to ensure your gift card goes to the right person.

Charity Scams
Make sure your donations don’t end up in the hands of fraud artists. 

Telemarketing Scams
Learn how telemarketing scams work and how to protect yourself from fraudsters over the phone.

Employment Scams
Find popular job scams and tips to help you avoid them.

Email and Internet Scams
Learn about popular online scams in circulation and discover ways to protect yourself from online fraud. You can also check out the Government of Canada’s Get Cyber Safe Campaign for more info.

Consultants Who Charge For Assistance
Tips on avoiding agents who may charge you for securing rights you already have.

Who To Talk To If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
Helpful resources to help you untangle yourself from a scam.