Many people are choosing Canada as their new home, bringing a wealth of new opportunities for newcomers and the country. However, certain challenges can make the transition more difficult. Among these challenges is the risk of fraud and scams targeting newcomers and immigrants alike.
Every March, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) observes Fraud Prevention Month, an awareness program to tackle the rising threat of fraud.
This initiative focuses on informing the public about various scams and providing guidance on how to avoid them. Since fraud-related cybercrime has increased significantly, newcomers must proactively recognize potential threats.
You must understand these risks; learning how to protect yourself is essential for newcomers to transition into Canada safely.
Common Scams Every Newcomer to Canada Should Know
Let us explore some of the common scams that newcomers may face in Canada:
· Fake Government Representative Scams
· Phishing and Fake Email Scams
· Bogus Virus Alerts
· Prize Win Scams
Fake Government Representative Scams
Receiving a call from someone claiming to be a government official can be alarming, especially when they demand money and threaten your immigration status. This is one of the common scams and is on the rise, with fraudsters exploiting fear to manipulate unsuspecting individuals.
If you receive such a call, remain composed and follow these steps: Request the caller's name and then hang up. Report any lost funds to your local police. To verify the authenticity of the call, contact the IRCC call center. Contact the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) immediately if you suspect tax fraud. Always be vigilant, and do not share your personal details.
Phishing and Fake Email Scams
Newcomers in Canada often find themselves flooded with various emails, some of which can be misleading. These messages may urge Newcomers/ immigrants to invest money, share personal passwords, or even provide banking information. They may claim as government officials and call frequently to build your trust. The urgency or authority in these emails can make them seem convincing.
To stay safe, newcomers must approach such emails with caution. If they receive a suspicious email, the safest response is to delete it immediately. Additionally, they should be vigilant for any links that may lead to fraudulent websites that may capture their personal data. Verifying the website's legitimacy is crucial before entering any information online. By being vigilant and discerning, newcomers can protect themselves from these scams.
Bogus Virus Alerts
Scammers often exploit fears about technology by claiming that a person's computer is infected with a virus. In these scenarios, the scammer will typically call and pose as a representative from a software company, insisting that immediate action is needed to resolve the supposed infection. They may pressure the victim into providing computer passwords and personal information under the guise of helping them.
To protect against such scams, it is crucial to remember never to grant access to your computer or share personal information with anyone who you haven't directly contacted. The IRCC advises seeking computer or software repairs only from reputable professional shops and using antivirus services from trusted, accredited providers. Staying vigilant can help newcomers safeguard their personal and financial information from these deceptive tactics.
Prize Win Scams
Receiving a phone call or text claiming that you have won something in a competition you never entered is likely a scam. These messages often prompt individuals to enter personal information.
IRCC advises against providing any personal details and against responding to such messages, as fraudsters may use this tactic to verify that they have an actual phone number.
In Canada, you can forward suspicious texts to 7726, which enables phone providers to block future messages from those numbers.
Newcomers should remain vigilant against several types of other scams, including
Newcomers should be alert against fake immigration advisors who claim to offer services that enhance their chances of securing a visa or residency in Canada. These scammers often present themselves as licensed professionals but lack the necessary credentials.
Verifying their qualifications through official registries and websites is crucial. You must be wary of anyone asking for hefty upfront fees without providing clear, documented services.
Always consult recognized authorities regarding immigration processes to avoid falling prey to fraudulent claims. For any kind of immigration assistance, you may contact ImmiAid, Immigrant Aid Society, Canada.
Scammers frequently exploit newcomers by presenting fraudulent job offers that may seem too good to be true. These offers often involve unrealistic salaries, minimal requirements, or requests for application fees before an interview takes place. Researching the employer thoroughly is essential, as well as checking for their legitimacy and ensuring they have a professional online presence. Be cautious of poorly written job postings and communication that lacks professionalism, as these can be red flags of a scam.
International students must exercise caution when considering educational institutions in Canada, as some may not be registered as Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). These unregistered schools can offer enticing programs and admission letters but lack the authorization to accept international students. Students should verify a school's DLI status through official government websites before applying to protect themselves. Taking these steps ensures a legitimate educational experience and helps avoid the risks associated with unrecognized institutions.
How to Act if You Suspect a Scam?
When you suspect that you have fallen victim to a scam, the first step is to act swiftly. Contact your financial institution immediately to report any suspicious activity. They can help you freeze your accounts and issue new credit or debit cards to prevent further unauthorized transactions. This proactive measure minimizes potential financial loss and safeguards your assets.
In addition to securing your finances, you must report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) and local police.
The CAFC serves as a national hub for collecting information about various scams and frauds, offering valuable resources to help you understand and recognize fraudulent schemes. By reporting your experience, you protect yourself and contribute to broader efforts to combat fraud in your community.
Newcomers in Canada must be cautious to protect themselves from scams. Remember never to share your passwords, PINs, or any personal or banking information unless you have thoroughly verified the identity of the individual or website requesting it. This simple step can prevent unauthorized access to your sensitive data.
Additionally, exercise vigilance when dealing with unknown emails. It is best to avoid opening these messages or clicking on any links they may contain, as they could lead to phishing attempts or malware. By steering clear of suspicious communications, you significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to scams.
Finally, take your time when making decisions. Scammers often pressure individuals into acting quickly, hoping to catch them off guard and extract sensitive information. By remaining calm and thoughtful, you can better assess situations and protect your personal information from threats.
Key Facts About IRCC's Communication Practices
What Should Newcomers and Immigrants Always Keep in Mind?
Protecting against immigration fraud is essential for newcomers to Canada. Staying informed about the immigration process helps individuals recognize potential scams. By verifying information through official channels and exercising caution with personal details, newcomers can minimize their risk of deception.
Resources like the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) scam tracker are invaluable for monitoring and reporting fraudulent activities. These tools enable newcomers to make informed choices and confidently navigate their path to Canada while safeguarding their interests.
ImmiAid is a Canadian charity committed to aiding immigrants in their journey to integrate into Canadian life. We focus on safeguarding you from immigration fraud, job scams, ghost consultants, and unauthorized immigration representatives.
For more information and support, contact us at info@immiaid.ca or visit our website at www.immiaid.ca
