Recognize the signs of telephone fraud

The caller claims to be from an established organization, such as a bank or the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), and tries to pressure you to pay an outstanding balance or provide personal information.

The caller asks you for sensitive information, such as your bank account password or Social Insurance Number (SIN). Don't give out any of your personal or banking information. We'll never call you and ask for your PIN or password.

The caller demands an immediate response to a technical support issue, a transaction on your account or customer service request.  These demands often involves asking for personal information and threatening you with government, police or legal action.

The caller claims to be from a credit card company, such as Visa*. They may claim you've been overcharged for a product or service or they can reduce your credit card interest rate. Be skeptical of any cold calls asking you for personal information or an immediate response.  

Know when we'll call you

We'll contact you if you've submitted a request for a call at a specified time, such as a call with an advisor. 

We'll reach out to you if we detect any unusual activity in your account(s). You'll need to confirm if you've authorized the activity. Learn what we're doing and how to safeguard your accounts from debit and credit card fraud. 

We'll let you know when we have new offers or products if you've chosen to receive marketing calls. You can also opt out from being contacted anytime.  

Stay safe with our tips to stop telephone fraud

  • Never give your personal or financial information to people you don't know, including your bank account and credit card details, passwords, PINs and SIN.
  • Don't answer calls from an unknown number or one-ring calls. Let it go to your voicemail if applicable.
  • Don't trust your caller ID. Fraudsters use "caller ID spoofing" to change the information that appears on your display.
  • If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from a legitimate company, always ask to call them back on their official phone number. Find phone numbers from sources such as the back of your card, an official website or old statements.
  • Hang up on automated calls. Don't follow instructions on pre-recorded messages, as it's most likely fraud.
  • Slow down and ask questions. Don't give in to the urgency or pressure from a caller. Fraudsters use this tactic to get your information.
  • Put your number on Canada's National Do Not Call List Opens in a new window.. This won't stop scammers from calling, but it reduces unsolicited calls.
  • Use call blocking or call labeling. See what services your phone carrier provides. Check the reviews for a good call-blocking app for your cell phone.

Notice anything suspicious? Let us know


Explore more about telephone fraud

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Opens in a new window.

Report fraud when it happens and track the latest data on fraud happening in Canada.

Canadian Bankers Association Opens in a new window.

Read about the latest news and trends in fraud awareness and prevention. 

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Opens in a new window.

Spot and avoid scams that could exploit your tax and personal information.