📞 Phone Calls
Never share personal information (SIN, credit card number, passwords) over the phone.
Be cautious of unexpected calls, even if they appear to come from official numbers.
Never rely on caller ID alone — fraudsters can easily imitate legitimate phone numbers.
Always hang up and call back using the official number listed on the organization’s website.
📧 Emails and Messages
- Check the sender’s email address carefully — scammers often mimic legitimate domains
- Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments unless you’re absolutely sure of the source.
- Watch for spelling mistakes, blurry logos, or strange phrasing.
- Never pay to claim a prize or gift — legitimate contests don’t ask for money.
📱 Social Media and Contests
- Be skeptical of “too good to be true” giveaways (e.g., “Win an iPhone just by commenting!”).
- Verify the page’s authenticity — official pages often have a blue verification badge.
- Never share personal details in comments or private messages.
🧠 Common Red Flags
- Urgency or pressure tactics: “Act now or your account will be suspended!”
- Unusual payment requests: prepaid cards, money orders, cryptocurrency.
- Promises of easy money or prizes: “You’ve won — just pay shipping!”
✅ If You’re Unsure
- Don’t respond or engage with the message or caller.
- Talk about it with others — sharing your experience can help prevent more victims.