Stay Scam Smart, Canada!
-
Charity Scams: How to Protect Your Generous Heart (& Wallet)
Many New Brunswickers are known for their generosity, but scammers often try to exploit that kindness. This article would focus on: This topic is especially relevant as the holiday season approaches, when people are more likely to donate to charities. It can help protect your community members from falling victim to scams while encouraging them…
-
Spot the Spoof: How to Identify a Fake or Scam Website
In our digital world, it’s easy to stumble upon a fake website that looks just like the real deal. Scammers create these deceptive sites to steal your personal information, credit card details, or even money. But don’t fret, Canada! We’re here to help you spot the spoofs and stay safe online. 1. Check the URL…
-
Spot the Scam: How to Identify a Fraudulent Text Message
In the digital age, scammers are getting sneaky with their tactics. One way they’re reaching out is through your phone with scam text messages, or “smishing.” But don’t worry, Canada, we’ve got your back! Here’s how to spot a scam SMS: 1. Urgent Language: Scammers often use alarming phrases like “Immediate action required!” or “Your…
-
Online Shopping Scams: Click with Caution
That amazing deal on the latest smartphone, the designer handbag at a fraction of the retail price, the must-have toy that’s sold out everywhere else… Online shopping can be a treasure trove of tempting offers. But before you click “add to cart,” remember that scammers lurk in the digital marketplace, ready to turn your online…
-
Elder Abuse and Financial Exploitation: Protecting Our Seniors
Picture this: Mrs. Johnson, a kind and trusting widow in her late 80s, receives a friendly phone call from someone offering to help her with her finances. He seems so helpful, offering to run errands and manage her bills. But over time, Mrs. Johnson notices her savings dwindling, and she can’t understand where her money…
-
Identity Theft: Guarding Your Most Valuable Asset – You
Imagine opening your mailbox to find a stack of bills for credit cards you never applied for. Or perhaps you discover your bank account has been drained, with mysterious purchases you don’t recognize. This is the chilling reality of identity theft, a crime that can turn your life upside down. Identity theft occurs when someone…
-
Tax Scams: Don’t Let Fraudsters Steal Your Refund (and Your Identity)
It’s tax season, and while you’re busy gathering your receipts and filling out forms, scammers are busy too – looking for ways to steal your hard-earned refund and your personal information. Imagine this: your phone rings, and an aggressive voice claims to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), demanding immediate payment for a tax…
-
Counterfeit Products: Spotting the Fakes and Protecting Yourself
Imagine scoring a fantastic deal on a pair of designer sneakers online. You excitedly await their arrival, only to discover they’re poorly made, fall apart within weeks, and definitely aren’t the real deal. Unfortunately, this is a common experience for many shoppers who fall victim to counterfeit products. Counterfeit products are fake replicas of genuine…
-
Investment Scams: High Returns, Higher Risks
The phone rings. An enthusiastic voice on the other end tells you about a “once-in-a-lifetime” investment opportunity. They promise incredible returns with minimal risk, urging you to invest now before it’s too late. Sounds tempting, right? But before you hand over your hard-earned money, be warned: this could be an investment scam. Investment scams are…
-
Tech Support Scams: Don’t Fall for the Virus Vigilantes
You’re browsing the web when suddenly a pop-up window appears, flashing a dire warning: “Your computer is infected with a virus!” A phone number prominently displayed urges you to call for immediate assistance. Alarm bells should be ringing, because this is a classic tactic used in tech support scams. These scams prey on your fear…
-
“Job Scams: Don’t Let Your Job Hunt Lead to a Dead End
You’re scrolling through job postings, eager to find the perfect opportunity. Suddenly, you see it – the dream job! It pays well, has amazing benefits, and seems like a perfect fit. You excitedly submit your application, hoping for the best. But what if this dream job turns out to be a nightmare? Job scams are…
-
Phishing Scams: Don’t Get Hooked!
You’re checking your email when a message catches your eye. It appears to be from your bank, warning you about suspicious activity on your account. They urge you to click a link and verify your information immediately. Sounds alarming, right? This is a classic example of a phishing scam, and it’s more common than you…
-
Emergency Scams: Think Twice, Act Once
Imagine this: Your phone rings, and a panicked voice cries out, “Mom/Dad, I need help! I’ve been in an accident!” Your heart pounds as you try to make sense of the chaotic situation. The caller, claiming to be your child, pleads for your help, saying they need money immediately for medical bills or legal fees.…
Noticed Scam website?