We've recently updated our Fraud Alerts & Awareness page to reflect the latest scams targeting Canadians in 2025.
This includes new trends identified by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, along with tips to help you recognize and avoid common fraud tactics. Staying informed is your best defense - review the updated content to better protect yourself, your family, and your finances.
1. Investment Scams
These scams involve fraudsters offering fake investment opportunities, often promising high returns with little risk.
Victims may be lured into investing in non-existent or worthless ventures.
2. Romance Scams
Scammers build fake online relationships to gain victims' trust and then exploit them financially, often under the guise of a personal emergency or
travel expenses.
3. Spear Phishing
Targeted emails or messages appear to come from trusted sources, tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links.
4. Service Scams
Fraudsters pose as legitimate service providers, offering services like tech support or home repairs, and the charge exorbitant fees or steal personal information.
5. Extortion Scams
Victims receive threats, often claiming that compromising information will be released unless a ransom is paid, typically in untraceable forms like cryptocurrency.
6. Merchandise Scams
Scammers sell counterfeit or non-existent products online. Victims pay for goods that never arrive or are of substandard quality.
7. Job Scams
Fake job postings or offers are used to collect personal information or upfront fees from job seekers, with no actual employment opportunity.
8. Identity Theft
Personal information is stolen and used to commit fraud, such as opening credit accounts or making unauthorized purchases to the victim's name.
9. Emergency Scams
Scammers impersonate a relative or friend in distress, claiming they need immediate financial help due to an emergency situation.
10. Prize Scams
Victims are told they've won a prize but must pay fees or taxes upfront to claim it.
In reality, there is no prize, and the fees go directly to the scammer.
Scams and Fraud - Government of Canada - Canada.ca
If you suspect you've been targeted by a scam, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre:
antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.canada.ca
Stay informed and vigilant to protect yourself and your loved ones from fraud.