Did you know that March is Fraud Prevention Month? As of September 30, 2025, over 23,113 people in Canada had reported being victims of fraud in 2025. That’s more than $544 million in losses. Here are some tools and resources to help you spot fraud or to support you if you’ve been targeted.
Fraud typically involves promising money, services, or goods and then deceiving someone by not delivering what was promised. While seniors may be more vulnerable in some situations, fraud can affect people of any age. The good news is that there are ways to spot it. Read our article about financial fraud for base information and tips on recognizing potential scams.
Still want to know more? We also have a more detailed guide on how to protect yourself from fraud and financial abuse. It covers common types of investment fraud, tactics scammers use, and how to avoid them.
Also, did you know that fraud isn’t just committed by strangers? Sometimes, scammers target people they know, including their loved ones.
Digital technology: a breeding ground for fraud
Online marketplaces make it easier for people to buy and sell new and used items with little to no involvement from a third party. But like most online spaces, people can use these platforms to commit fraud. Our article about buying or selling online explains some ways you can protect yourself.
Email impersonation, a type of phishing attack, is another common way to commit online fraud. For example, scammers may copy messages that look like legitimate subscription renewal notices, delivery confirmations or bank transaction approvals.
If you suspect investment fraud, you can report it to Quebec’s financial markets authority, the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF). The AMF also publishes a list of websites, individuals, and companies that are suspicious and that may be a fraud risk. While this list is updated regularly, it is not exhaustive or final.
Other resources and options
If you’re a victim of fraud, you can contact the Crime Victims Assistance Centres (CAVAC). They can provide free, confidential support and guide you through the steps. You can also report the fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Reporting fraud helps authorities prevent others from becoming victims.
In some cases, you may be able to take legal action to denounce the scam or even get reimbursed. You can also place a security alert on your credit file or freeze your credit report with Equifax and TransUnion.
Think you know everything about fraud now? Test your knowledge with our quiz!