Scammers target both consumers and businesses. The best way to avoid becoming a victim is to be informed and alert. Get to know the different types of scams and always report fraud.
Scams succeed because they look like the real thing and catch you off guard when you’re not expecting it. Scammers are getting smarter and taking advantage of new technology, new products or services and major events to create believable stories that will convince you to give them your money or personal details.

BEST DEFENCE:

• Keep personal information confidential. Do not give out
  personal information over the phone, through email or over the Internet unless you initiated the contact
  and know who you’re dealing with.
• Keep your personal information safe. An identity thief may pick through your garbage or recycling bins, so be sure to shred receipts, copies of credit applications, insurance forms, etc.
• Avoid giving your credit card number over the phone unless you made the call and the number is from a trusted source.
• Protect your PIN and passwords. Do not reveal your PIN or passwords to anyone, including employees of your bank or credit union, family members and friends.
• Beware of “Too Good to Be True” offers. Be wary of unexpected offers or requests that are “too good to be true.”
• Contact the authorities. If you suspect you are a victim of fraud, contact your bank and the Police immediately.
• Develop good password habits; change them often and use unique ones that are hard to guess.
• Ensure the website address makes sense. Is the name in the address or is it someone/thing else.
• Consider a low-limit credit card to use for on line purchases. Protect yourself from future fraud

Scammers often target victims of fraud a second or third time with the promise of recovering money. Always do your due diligence and never send recovery money.
Share any updates with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, your financial institutions and police.
Tell family, friends, neighbours and co-workers about your experience. You may prevent someone else from becoming a victim.
Resources:
Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre News releases, scams and fraud Visit the Competition Bureau for more information, to report fraud and
scams and prevention tips on the Fraud and Scams page.
Better Business Bureau for Scam Tracker and helpful information.