Tips on How to Avoid Online Scams

Avoiding online scams in Canada (or anywhere else) involves being vigilant, informed, and taking proactive measures to protect your personal and financial information. Here are some tips to help you avoid online scams:

1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Emails:
   • Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or unsolicited emails.
   • Be cautious of emails claiming urgent action is required or offering deals that seem too good to be true.
2. Verify the Legitimacy of Websites:
   • Only make online purchases from reputable and secure websites.
   • Check for "https://" in the URL in the address bar to ensure a secure connection.
   • Look for reviews and ratings of the website before making a purchase.
3. Use Strong and Unique Passwords:
   • Create strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts.
   • Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols in a password that is at least 12 characters long.
   • Consider using a password manager to store and generate complex passwords.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
   • Enable 2FA whenever possible for an additional layer of security.
   • This usually involves receiving a code on your phone or email in addition to entering your password.
5. Keep Software and Antivirus Updated:
   • Regularly update your operating system, browser, and antivirus software to patch security vulnerabilities.
6. Beware of Phishing Attempts:
   • Be cautious of emails, messages, or pop-ups asking for personal information.
   • Verify the legitimacy of such requests by contacting the company directly using official contact information.
7. Monitor Bank and Credit Card Statements:
   • Regularly review your bank and credit card accounts on your bank's website for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions.
   • Report any discrepancies to your financial institution immediately.
8. Educate Yourself:
   • Stay informed about common online scams and techniques used by scammers.
   • Be aware of current scams and tactics by checking reputable sources for information like the national news providers.
9. Secure Your Devices:
   • Subscribe to, install and update reliable antivirus and anti-malware software on your devices.
   • Use a firewall to protect your home or work network.
10. Be Cautious on Social Media:
    • Be selective about the personal information you share on social media.
    • Be highly wary of friend requests or messages from unknown individuals.
11. Verify Charity Organizations:
    • Before donating online, verify the legitimacy of charity organizations by checking their official websites or contacting them directly.
12. Trust Your Instincts:
    • If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and investigate further before proceeding.
13. Check-in with Seniors You Know
    • Make sure you contact elderly parents or senior friends that you think could fall victim to potential scams so they don't do something they would later regret. 

By staying vigilant and implementing these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to online scams. Additionally, staying informed about new scam tactics and being cautious in your online interactions is crucial for online safety.

Contact our office if you have any questions or think you have been misled at any time.