BBB along with a number of consumer and volunteer groups, government agencies and law enforcement organizations are using the month of March to join forces and educate Canadians on how to recognize, report and stop fraud.
Every Monday in March, BBB will be posting an informative Fraud Prevention Tip on this site. Below you will also find links to other important fraud prevention organizations. We’ve also included a News Release outlining some of the other locations you can look for BBB Fraud Prevention articles, presentations and helpful tips.
Education and common sense are the key elements to protecting yourself from becoming a victim of fraud. Educate yourself and stay informed!
March 3, 2009 - Click here to read a press release about the launch of Fraudcast.ca, the new technology that will alert Canadians to scams happening in their own community.
March 2, 2009 -
Click here to read the BBB press release about Fraud Prevention Month.
Weekly Fraud Prevention Tips
March 30, 2009
Prevent Identity Theft
Identity theft can happen to anyone at any time. It’s estimated that ID Theft costs Canadians about 21.5 million dollars per year. While its impossible to ensure that your identity is never stolen, there are a number of simple things you can do to reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
Don’t give it out
Make it a rule to never give out your personal information such as your full name, birth date, bank account or credit card information over the phone, through the mail or via the Internet, unless you have specifically initiated the contacted and know and trust the person or company you are dealing with.
Check your statements
Check your bank, credit card and account statements regularly for activity. It is a good idea to keep your receipts from the past month and carefully compare your transactions with your monthly statements. If you notice an unusual transaction be sure to contact your financial institution to discuss it.
Check your credit report
Be sure to check your credit report annually. Doing so, will not only help you keep track of the status of your personal credit, but it will also help you identify any fraudulent activity should your identity be stolen.
If you think you’ve become a victim of identity theft contact your financial institutions and the police immediately.