Scams come in many forms—whether it is a suspicious text, a phishing email, an unexpected phone call, or a fake website. Scammers are always coming up with new ways to trick people, but you can protect yourself by staying alert. If you ever suspect you have been targeted by a scam, it is important to report it right away. Doing so helps keep you safe, protects others, and makes it harder for scammers to succeed.

Why report scams?

1. It helps to protect others: When you report a scam, you are helping spread the word. Your report could prevent someone else from falling into the same trap.
2. It helps to shut down scammers: Law enforcement and fraud prevention agencies use reports to track down and stop scammers. The more reports they receive, the better they can crack down on fraudsters.
3. It can keep your money safe: Reporting a scam quickly can help you secure your accounts and reduce the chance that your money will be stolen. Your bank and credit card company may also suggest protective measures to protect your accounts.

Common types of scams you can report 

• Text scams (smishing): These scams arrive by text to your mobile phone and often look like they are from legitimate companies, like your bank or a federal and provincial government agency.
• Phishing emails: These emails try to trick you into sharing personal information by pretending to be from trusted organizations and can contain malicious links designed to help scammers steal your personal or financial information.
• Phone scams: Scammers call pretending to be from your bank, a government office, or even a loved one in trouble, asking for money or personal info.
• Fake websites: These sites look like real businesses but are actually set up to steal your data, credit card info or money.

How to report a scam

Here is a breakdown of where you can report different types of scams in Canada:

1. Report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC)

The CAFC collects reports on all types of fraud and scams. By reporting to them, you are helping keep yourself and others safe.

• Online Reporting: Use the Fraud Reporting System to report online.
• Phone: 1-888-495-8501

2. Report to your bank

If you have shared financial information or sent money in a scam, contact your bank or credit card company right away. They can help stop transactions and secure your accounts.

3. Report Spam Texts

You can report spam easily and for free by forwarding it via text message to 7726 (SPAM). Doing so helps to identify new types of spam messages and improve the filters used by telecommunications to block scam texts.

• Instructions for how to forward scams on Android and iOS devices

4. Report fraudulent websites to the Competition Bureau

If you come across a fake website, report it to the Competition Bureau, which helps enforce laws against misleading marketing practices.

• Website: Competition Bureau Fraud Reporting

5. Report to Local Police

If the scam involves a large financial loss or serious identity theft, you should also report it to your local police department. Most police departments offer non-emergency fraud reporting either online or by phone.

What to Do After You Report

• Keep records: Save all communications related to the scam and document your reports to the authorities.
• Monitor your accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank, credit card, and online accounts for any unusual activity.
• Stay updated: The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre regularly posts updates about ongoing scams, so check back to stay informed. You can also subscribe to the Canadian Bankers Association’s free Fraud Prevention Tip email newsletter.

Reporting scams is one of the best ways you can protect yourself and others. It only takes a few minutes, but it can make a big difference. Even if you are not sure if something is a scam, it is always better to report it and let the experts investigate. When we all stay alert and report suspicious activity, we make it harder for scammers to succeed.