3. Learn how to protect yourself

Remember that banks, government offices, employers, and businesses will never call, text, or email you for your SIN, banking information, and debit or card numbers.

Here are some other things you can do to protect yourself from being scammed.

Know some of the warning signs that you might be getting scammed. Step 2 lists the common warning signs.

Confirm or verify the information before you decide to do anything, for example:

If the caller says they're calling from your bank, look up your bank's number and call them back. Or go to the bank in person if you can.
If the caller says they're a loved one, ask questions that only your loved one will know the answer to.
If the door-to-door salesperson says you must sign their agreement right away, say no. You can also ask for a copy of the agreement and show it to someone you trust before signing.
Go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre's website and read through their list of scams.

Do not trust messages from unfamiliar emails and phone numbers, for example:

Do not open emails or click on links in emails from people or email addresses that you do not know. Block and report the email address.
Do not answer calls or click on links in text messages from people or phone numbers that you do not know. Block and report the phone number.

Be careful about sharing your , for example:

Only share your SIN or bank account information when the law says you must, like when you start a new job.
Do not lend your debit or credit cards to anyone or share their numbers or PINs.
Do not share your address with anyone you do not know and if you do not have to.

Be safe on social media, for example:

Never share details about your address, date of birth, phone number, or personal email address.
Before you post a photo online, make sure it does not show information like your credit card, license plate number, address, phone number, or date of birth.
Do not click on links in private messages from people you do not know.

Read more about how to protect yourself from identity theft and how to stay safe on social media.

Other tips:

Make sure your computer has the latest virus and anti-spam protection programs.
Register on the National Do Not Call List to avoid most telemarketing calls. Visit lnnte-dncl.gc.ca or call 1-866-580-3625. For TTY call 1-888-362-5889.
Register your email or phone number for Interac e-transfer auto-deposit. Then any e-transfers you get are automatically deposited. You do not have to log in to your bank account to deposit the money.