Preventing fraud Identity theft

Keep your identity safe from fraud and theft

Identity fraud can affect anyone. Fraudsters use different methods to get your personal information, such as phishing links, malware and dumpster diving. With this information, they may open new accounts, purchase items and steal money. You may not know your identity has been stolen until months or years later.

3-minute read

What you need to know

Check your credit score and statements regularly and report any irregular transactions.
Use safe online practices and be suspicious of unsecured networks and websites.
Be aware of unsolicited emails, text messages or phone calls that ask for personal information.

Notice anything suspicious? Let us know.

What's identity fraud and identity theft?

Identity fraud happens when a fraudster uses stolen personal information. Often, it's used to commit fraud and hide criminal activity. This includes pretending to be someone else when applying for bank accounts, loans or credit cards. Identity theft is a deliberate act to steal personal information. A fraudster may dumpster dive, steal mail or use phishing emails, computer spyware or malware to get this information.

Warning signs of identity fraud and theft

Your credit score has changed.
Your phone or internet service has been disconnected because of non-payment.
You receive notifications about new accounts in your name or have unauthorized transactions in your account.
You're missing bills and statements. This may be a sign that your mail has been stolen or your mailing address has been changed.
You receive calls from creditors or collection agencies. This may be a sign that you've been approved or denied credit you haven't applied for or an account you don't have.

Follow our best practices to protect yourself

Report any suspicious or unauthorized activity immediately
Never use the same password for multiple accounts or reuse an old password
Shred any mail or statements that have your personal information
Review your statements regularly to ensure all transactions are genuine
Place an alert on your credit bureau and bank products to get notified of any activity
Memorize your passwords and PINs and never share this information with anyone
Install up-to-date antivirus software, anti-spyware and a firewall on your computer
Avoid giving personal information over the phone when you're in public
After completing an online transaction or purchase, sign out of the website and clear your browser’s cookies and cache

Our promise for your money

If you've been affected by fraud and have done everything in your power to keep your accounts safe, we'll help you get your money back. To learn more about the security guidelines for your accounts, review our Online Security Guarantee.

Notice anything suspicious? Let us know.

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Equifax identity theft education Opens in a new window.

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Consumer Protection Ontario Opens in a new window.

Get insights on how to keep your personal and financial information safe.

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Opens in a new window.

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

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Keep your identity safe from fraud and theft

What you need to know

What's identity fraud and identity theft?

Warning signs of identity fraud and theft

Follow our best practices to protect yourself

Our promise for your money

Notice anything suspicious? Let us know.

Explore more types of fraud and scams

Learn more about identity fraud and theft

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