Financial and personal safety

• What happens? Scammers pretend to be from your bank. They may contact you via text, email or fake phone calls (it looks like your bank is calling!).
• What do they want? They claim there's an "urgent" problem with your account to trick you into sharing private information.
• How to stay safe: Always hang up and call your bank directly using the number on the back of your card.

Here’s the trick: you might get a text or email that looks like it’s from one of these wallet apps. It’ll say you need to update your info and ask you to click a link. Don’t do it! That message is fake, and the scammers are trying to steal your account details.

If they get your info, they can add your payment methods to their own devices and start spending your money without permission. Stay sharp and don’t click on links from random messages—even if they look legit

• What happens? Fraudsters pretend to be from phone or internet companies. They offer deals, discounts, or new phones to get your personal info or money.
• How to stay safe: Hang up and contact the company through their real customer service number.

• What happens? Fraudsters act like financial experts, offering tempting investment deals (e.g., cryptocurrency or Bitcoin). They promise high profits but may steal your money.
• How to stay safe: If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Research thoroughly and verify credentials before investing.

Be careful! That link could take you to a fake website that looks real but is actually designed to steal your personal info. If you type in your login or details, scammers can get into your accounts or take your money.

1. Say no to random calls or emails. If something feels off, stop communication and verify the source independently.
2. Guard your personal information. Never share private details like passwords, account numbers, or PINs with unknown contacts.
3. Double-check websites and emails. Fake ones often look real but may have tiny errors (like ".net" instead of ".com").
4. Pause before acting. Beware of "urgent" requests asking for quick decisions.
5. Scammers love to create pressure—watch out for anyone rushing you into a financial decision. If a deal is "one-day-only" or feels urgent, take a step back!
6. Too good to be true? It probably is! Be wary of promises of huge profits, especially with investments like cryptocurrency.
7. Got offered a free trip or a cash bonus? Don’t get too excited just yet! Scammers may ask for personal info or a small fee to "claim" your prize.
8. If someone asks for money or personal details—whether it's a "job offer," a "government official," or a "bank representative"—pause and verify first! Some criminals pretend to be professionals to pressure you. Also, never click unexpected links in emails or texts.
9. Even messages from "family" can be fake! Scammers impersonate loved ones through texts, emails, or calls. If you get a suspicious request, always double-check with them before sending money.

• Document the incident: Compile any messages, receipts, or other proof.
• Inform financial institutions so they can secure accounts: This could include banks, investment brokerages or the CRA. If you are a Scotiabank customer, call us immediately at 1-866-625-0561.
• Report to the police: It's vital to document fraud. You’ll get a case number so you're able to follow up.
• Submit the case to the CAFC: You can use the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center’s fraud reporting system (CAFC) to report online or call 1-888-495-8501.