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Scam of the Week
Real scams making the rounds in Canada right now, explained simply - how each one works, the red flags, and exactly what to do. Check back often.
The fake rental listing scam
A below-market rental listing, a "landlord" who is out of town and can't show the unit, and pressure to send a deposit by e-Transfer to hold it. The apartment isn't theirs to rent - moving season is prime time for this one.
Read alertThe CRA tax-refund text scam
A text or email claims to be the Canada Revenue Agency - a refund waiting, or taxes owed - with a link to "claim" or pay. The CRA never sends refunds or asks for personal info by text.
Read alertThe "easy online job" task scam
An out-of-the-blue message offers well-paid, easy online work - liking videos or "optimizing" products. Small early payouts build trust, then you're asked to deposit your own money to "unlock" earnings.
Read alertThe fake Interac e-Transfer scam
A "buyer" on Marketplace or Kijiji says they paid by Interac e-Transfer, then a fake "on hold" email asks you to click a link or pay a fee to release the funds.
Read alertThe unpaid-toll text scam
A text claims you owe a few dollars in unpaid road tolls and must pay immediately through a link. The small amount is bait - the real target is your card number.
Read alertThe fake subscription-renewal invoice
A receipt-style email says a subscription you don't remember auto-renewed for a large amount, with a number to call to "cancel." The call leads to a fake refund scam.
Read alertThe "bank fraud department" call
A call or text appears to be from your bank's fraud department, warning of a suspicious charge. They ask you to read back a security code or move money to a "safe account."
Read alert