Fraud Prevention Month is an annual campaign that seeks to help you recognize, reject and report fraud.

When it comes to fraud prevention, knowledge is power. With the tools provided by the Competition Bureau Canada, you can join the fight against fraud. Included tools: Anti-fraud toolbox, The Little Black Book of Scams, How & Where to Report fraud , Fraud quiz and Anti-fraud videos

It’s all about recognizing the signs, rejecting suspicious claims and reporting them to the authorities. Trust your instincts! If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

If you, or someone you know, needs help, please consider contacting any of the organizations below:

Investing and Financial Advisors Fraud:

• L’Autorité des marchés financiers (Quebec) – Or call 1-877-525-0337.
• Canadian Securities Administrators

Fraud:

• Sûreté du Québec – Or call 819-770-9111, 310-4141 (to open an investigation into fraud, or contact your local police)
• Canadian Anti-Fraud Call Centre of the RCMP – Or call 1-888-495-8501
• PhoneBusters (Canadian Anti-fraud Call Center) – Or call 1-888-495-8501
• Many banks and other financial institutions have pamphlets and websites about fraud. The Canadian Bankers Association website also has a section on this topic.

Computer Security:

• Government of Quebec: Protect Your Identity Online (french only).
• Sûreté du Québec, RCMP and other partners: “Internet 101“.

Consumer Rights:

• Office de la protection du consommateur – Or call 1-888-672-2556 (consumer protection bureau)
• Federal Government – Office of Consumer Affairs

Elder Abuse:

• Info-social, 8-1-1, option 2: Connects you to a qualified social worker 24/7, who will evaluate the situation and direct you to the appropriate service.
• Aide Abus Aînés is a bilingual, confidential help line and referral service for seniors who are victims of exploitation, abuse or neglect, and their families, friends, neighbours and the general population. Call 1-888-489-2287.
• Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (Human Rights Commission) is an organization that makes sure the protections in the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms are respected. The services of the Commission are free.  Call 1-800-361-6477.
• Crime Victims Assistance Centre (CAVAC) help crime victims and their families. It is not necessary to file a complaint with the police to use their services. Services are provided by professionals and are confidential and free of charge. Call 1-866-532-2822.
• S.O.S. Violence conjugale – Or call 1-800-363-9010