Online scams can look very real. A text may look like it comes from the government. A recruiter may offer you a great job. Someone may call pretending to be from your bank.
To support newcomers in recognizing online risks and staying safer online, ISSofBC is preparing to launch Cyber Safety Training: free, practical online training for newcomers to Canada. While we get ready to launch, here are some common scams and warning signs you should know.
Would you know if it was a scam?
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, by June 30, 2026, 9,935 victims of fraud had been reported, with $351 million in reported losses.
If you are new to Canada, some scams may be harder to recognize while you are still learning how banks, employers, government services, and other organizations communicate with you.
Knowing a few warning signs can help.
What are some common online scams?
Scams can reach you by email, text message, phone call, social media, or websites. Common examples include:
- Phishing: fake messages that try to make you click a link or share personal information.
- Government scams: someone pretends to work for a government organization.
- Job scams: fake employers or recruiters may offer jobs, request fees, or ask for personal information.
- Banking and identity scams: someone tries to get your money, banking details, or personal information.
- AI scams: scammers can use AI to create fake images, videos, or voices that look or sound real.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre provides information about current fraud and identity theft in Canada.
Stop and check before you act
Be careful when someone pressures you to act quickly, asks for money or personal information, sends an unexpected link, or makes an offer that seems too good to be true.
Don’t use the contact information in a suspicious message. Find the organization’s official website or phone number yourself and contact them directly.
Strong passwords, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and keeping your devices updated can also help protect you. You can find more practical advice through the Government of Canada’s Get Cyber Safe.
If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, learn how to report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Have you experienced an online scam? We’d love to hear your story.
Maybe it was a suspicious text, a fake job opportunity, or someone pretending to be from the government or your bank. Your experience can help us better understand the scams affecting newcomers and communities in Canada. Please share your story by clicking the button below.
Cyber Safety Training is coming soon
ISSofBC is preparing to launch Cyber Safety Training, free online training to support newcomers in recognizing scams, protecting their personal and financial information, and making safer choices online.
More information is coming soon.
Cyber-Smart. Cyber-Safe.
