Fraud attempts are common, but protecting yourself doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
For many Canadians, scams have become an unwelcome part of everyday life. Suspicious phone calls, phishing emails and unexpected text messages can arrive at any time — and often do.
The sheer volume of these messages can be exhausting. In fact, recent surveys suggest most Canadians assume every unexpected touchpoint is a potential threat. Constantly questioning whether a call or message is legitimate can lead to a kind of “fraud fatigue.”
While scams are unlikely to disappear anytime soon, staying safe doesn't mean memorizing every new fraud tactic. Focusing on a few simple habits can help you stay in control and fight fraud fatigue.
One simple rule for spotting scams
Part of the reason scams feel so constant today is straightforward: technology allows fraudsters to contact thousands of people at once through phone calls, emails, text messages and social media. Even if only a small number of people respond, it can still make the scam worthwhile.
The good news is that most scams rely on the same basic tactic — creating a sense of urgency so people act before they have time to think.
That is why the single most effective way to avoid fraud is surprisingly simple: pause before reacting to unexpected messages.
Small habits that make a difference
A text message may say a delivery cannot be completed without payment. An email could appear to come from a familiar organization requesting urgent action. Some scams even involve callers pretending to be a grandchild or loved one in trouble.
When a message arrives that feels unexpected or urgent, always take a moment to slow down and verify the request. Contact the organization directly using a trusted phone number or official website rather than the information provided in the message.
If this feels difficult in the moment, a few simple habits can help:
- Give yourself permission to pause. Scammers often rely on pressure and urgency. Taking time to think, even just a few minutes, can help break that pressure.
- Use a simple rule of thumb. If a message asks for money, personal information or immediate action, it’s worth verifying independently — much like double-checking a bill before paying it.
- Be cautious with links and attachments. Emails and text messages that contain unfamiliar links are a common fraud tactic. When there is any doubt, don’t click. Access accounts directly through an organization’s official website or app.
- Keep trusted contact information handy. Saving official phone numbers for your bank or service providers can make it easier to confirm a request quickly.
A good rule of thumb is that legitimate organizations will not pressure you to act immediately or ask for sensitive personal information through unexpected messages. Over time, practising “pause and verify” can become a reflex, making suspicious messages easier to recognize without feeling constantly on edge.
Stronger protections against fraud
In Budget 2025, the federal government announced plans to develop a national anti-fraud strategy, along with proposed measures that would require banks to strengthen fraud detection and give customers more control over certain account settings that can be misused by scammers.
Budget 2025 also includes plans to work with financial institutions on a voluntary code of conduct to help identify and prevent economic abuse. This form of financial harm can affect older Canadians, particularly when exploitation occurs within families or caregiving relationships.
If you encounter a scam
Reporting suspicious messages or calls can help authorities track emerging fraud and warn others in your community. In Canada, incidents can be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, which collects information about scams and supports law enforcement investigations. In an emergency, always contact your local police.