Keeping yourself updated on the latest scams is the best way to guard against fraud. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is a great resource to consult for an updated listing of common scams and frauds. Here is a summary of some of the common scams in 2025 that you should be aware of.
Fake websites are created that spoof a real website or an online banking site. These types of websites can be identified by the ending in their domain, which ends with “.org” rather than “.ca” or “.com”.
Scammers are constantly creating fake ads online. A good rule of thumb: if the asking price of a product is too good to be true, it is. Examples include classified ads sites, resale sites, website pop-ups, and fake company websites
Cryptocurrency scams attempt to steal money, personal, and financial information. Fraudsters will offer you cryptocurrency buy-ins promising a high rate of return and in a short amount of time. Instead, the victim will lose their investment and sometimes their personal and financial information.
Ransomware typically involves criminals gaining access to a network or device and encrypting data to make either the system or data inaccessible to users. Cybercriminals demand the payment of ransom in order for victims to be able to decrypt their data or regain access to their networks.
A scammer convinces you to enter a virtual, online relationship so the scammer can gain your trust and affection. This can occur through email, dating apps, and/or social media. This leads to the scammer asking you for money or another financial method.
Scammers are sending fake shipping notices from popular courier services claiming that the recipient has a parcel waiting but must pay a customs or rescheduling fee, which needs to be done online through a website link. The link directs the recipient to a genuine-looking phishing site for the courier service, where they will be tricked into either entering their credit card or banking information.
A scammer claims a virus has infected your computer through a website pop-up or an unsolicited phone call. The scammer will request access to your computer and may run programs or alter settings, as well as ask you to pay a fee to fix your computer.
Phishing is the fraudulent practice of sending emails claiming to be from a reputable company to persuade individuals to reveal personal information, such as online banking passwords and credit card numbers. Learning how to recognize desperation or false urgency in an email is important. Learn more about phishing.
Malware links are sent in a way to try and trick the end-user into clicking on them. Frequently taking place in corporate inboxes, where money and data are at risk, these attempts usually take the form of a manager or client asking for something important to be resolved on a rushed timeline.
A scammer claiming to be a representative from a bank or financial institution will call and try to gain access to online banking and other personal information. The scammer may request downloading an app to verify identity or obtain other personal information. Learn more about how you can protect yourself against phone scams.
A scammer contacts you to ask for a charity donation and uses high-pressure tactics to get you to donate immediately. The charity may not exist, or the scammer may not be associated with it. To avoid charity scams, ask for information in writing before donating.
A scammer claims to be an employee of either the Canada Revenue Agency or Service Canada. They state that you:
They threaten that if you do not speak to them immediately, you'll be arrested, fined or even deported. The scammers may request payment via money service businesses, pre‐paid cards/gift cards (iTunes, Google Play or Steam cards) or Bitcoin.
Emergency scams prey on your fear of a loved one being hurt or in trouble, often saying they need bail money or have been in an accident. Scammers claim to be someone you know and tell you they need money immediately.
A scammer claims to be an employee of a provincial hydro company and states that you have an unpaid balance on your bill. You must pay it immediately or the company will turn off your power. The scammer may request payment via e-transfer, or a gift card.
For a comprehensive list of current scams and frauds, please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.