Canadians Lost $123 Million to Fraud in 2024: How to Protect Yourself
   
> News & Publications > Community News

Canadians Lost $123 Million to Fraud in 2024: How to Protect Yourself

Canadians Lost $123 Million to Fraud in 2024: How to Protect Yourself
228
Community Events

Fraud Statistics: In 2024, Canadians have lost $123 million to fraud, affecting 7,908 people. By staying scam-savvy, you can avoid becoming a victim.

Common Scams:

  1. Home Services Scams: Misleading offers for air duct cleaning, furnace repairs, hot water tanks, and more. Scammers contact victims via social media ads, telemarketing calls, and door-to-door sales.
    • Warning Signs: Prices significantly below market value, poor-quality work, invalid warranties.
  2. Service Provider Scams: Fraudulent offers for internet, cable, or cellphone services.
    • Warning Signs: Requests for personal information like SIN and driver's license numbers.
  3. Government Service Scams: Fake websites offering expedited services for passports, birth certificates, or driver’s tests for a fee.
    • Warning Signs: Promises of faster processing times or guarantees.
  4. Immigration and Employment Scams: Fake websites offering immigration services or guaranteed jobs.
    • Warning Signs: Requests for application fees or deposits before services are rendered.
  5. Credit Card and Loan Scams: Offers to reduce interest rates for a one-time service fee.
    • Warning Signs: Requests for personal information and credit card details.
  6. Resale Scams: Scammers target online sellers, offering to help sell items for a fee.
    • Warning Signs: Claims of having a buyer, but the buyer never materializes.
  7. Tech Support Scams: Fake pop-ups or unsolicited calls claiming your computer is infected.
    • Warning Signs: Requests for remote access to your computer and payment for services.

Protect Yourself:

  • Verify Before You Buy: Research companies and service providers before sharing your contact information or signing contracts.
  • Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers: Hang up on unexpected calls from service providers and contact them directly using official contact information.
  • Government Forms are Free: Don’t pay for services promising faster processing of government documents.
  • Report Scams: If you suspect a scam, report it to the RCMP and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) online or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.

Stay informed and vigilant to protect yourself from fraud.

Share

Print

Finding what you're looking for? If not, try a Search

Featured Sections

Watch this area for commonly visited areas of our website, or areas that are current or new.

Get our Newsletter

Stay informed and get the latest news on whats happening in Devon. the "Our Devon" newsletter is published quarterly. Provide your email address and we'll let you know when each new edition comes out.

Sign up for our Newsletter

Get Our Devon News by Email

Contact Us

Municipal Office Contact
Town of Devon Municipal Office
1 Columbia Avenue West
Devon, AB T9G 1A1

 Phone: 780-987-8300
 Fax: 780-987-4778
 Google Map: View Large Map

Follow Us! We'd love to hear from you.

Terms Of Use | Privacy Statement Copyright 2024 © Town of Devon
Login | | Built with by WebmontonMedia