Protect yourself from Frauds and Scams

To avoid being scammed you have to remain diligent and follow these steps: 

• Assess the validity of all messages that you receive from people and business that you do not know. That includes any unsolicited phone calls, people knocking on your door, emails sent you—even those that look like they are from a company you do business with, or family and friends—and letters received in the mail that look like they are official.
• Any emails and links sent to you that seem off should be checked first, by rolling your cursor over them with your mouse before actually clicking on the link. Look at the destination URL is to see if it looks legitimate or not.
• Scammers will also pose as imposters from businesses or organizations and call or approach you in person. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently warned people about scammers posing as CFPB employees.
• Criminals will go to great lengths to try to pressure you with demands for money or payments. If you feel you are being victimized, make sure to report the scam to the proper government agency, your local Better Business Bureau office, and your local police department.

Here are some resources in Canada to help
PhoneBusters: 1-888-495-8501 www.phonebusters.com  
Canadian Antifraud Centre: 1-888-495-8501 www.antifraudcentre.ca
Canada Revenue Agency: 1-800-267-2384 

www.cra-arc.gc.ca/charities
Better Business Bureau of Mainland BC: 604- 682-2711 http://mainlandbc.bbb.org