Fraud - What is it?

Fraud by telephone, Internet and mail is a serious international problem. It steals your money, your identity and even your self-respect. Protect yourself by learning to recognize fraud. Familiarize yourself with the tips and information contained in this booklet.

THE FACE OF FRAUD: IT’S NOT WHO YOU THINK.
Believe it or not, there is no typical fraud victim in Canada, but research finds that fraud victims are likely to be educated, informed, relatively affluent and involved in their communities. Your risk of becoming a fraud victim is not linked to your age, race, income or geographic location. Scammers don’t care about any of that – they just want your money.

YOU WOULDN’T FALL FOR IT?
Thousands of Canadians are defrauded each year. Scam artists are up to date and well-organized. They use the latest trends and sophisticated techniques:

• Professional marketing materials.
• Well-crafted and researched telephone scripts, which are traded among criminals.
• Putting you at ease with their friendly tone and “generous” offer.
• Having believable answers ready for your tough questions.
• Impersonating legitimate businesses, charities, and causes.
• Expertly using your own emotions against you.

These are professional criminals.
They know what they’re doing and, unfortunately for their victims, they do it well.