Understanding how scams work is the most powerful way to protect yourself and the people you care about. This is a calm, practical place to learn how.
Every day, Canadians are targeted by people who make a living through deception. But getting caught in a scam does not mean you were careless or naive — these are sophisticated, professional criminals who have refined their techniques over years.
Here's the good news: scams follow patterns. Once you can see the patterns, you can spot them — no matter what the scam looks like on the surface. That's exactly what this site will help you do.
Reported lost to fraud in Canada in 2024 — and experts believe only 5–10% is ever reported.
Of all reported fraud losses in Canada are experienced by people aged 60 and older.
are not alone — and you're already doing the most powerful thing: learning how this works.
Read straight through, or jump to whatever you need most.
See the simple "formula" behind almost every scam — and why scammers target seniors.
Step 2Phone, email, text, your front door — the risks of each channel and how to lower them.
Step 3The warning signs to watch for — and a quick "Scam or Legit?" quiz to test your eye.
Step 4Simple habits, easy technical barriers, and the people in your life as your best defence.
Step 5What to do right now if something feels wrong, where to report, and where to find support.
Need help now?If something is happening right now, go straight here for the step-by-step checklist.
You don't need to become suspicious of everyone. You just need a few patterns, a few habits, and people you can talk to. Share this site with someone you care about — the more people know, the harder it is for scammers to succeed.