Identity Fraud in Canada: How to Protect Yourself

In 2024, Canadians reported losing an astonishing $638 million to fraud, according to the Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre (CAFC). That amount is roughly $60 million higher than the previous year’s reported losses, and experts warn the real total is almost certainly much larger: the CAFC estimates fewer than 5% of scams are ever reported. These numbers underline that identity fraud is now the most commonly reported crime in Canada and a growing threat to personal finances and peace of mind.

Identity fraud typically begins with deception: phishing emails, fake texts, fraudulent phone calls and other scams aim to trick people into revealing personal or financial details. Once criminals obtain that data, they can impersonate victims, make unauthorized purchases, open credit accounts or loans, drain bank accounts, or even apply for mortgages in someone else’s name. The consequences can be lengthy and harmful to credit and financial wellbeing.

Scammers are also evolving their tactics. Many now use artificial intelligence (AI) to create realistic audio and video “deepfakes” that mimic a person’s voice or appearance, making impersonation more convincing. AI tools can also automate outreach, enabling criminals to target far larger numbers of people simultaneously. These changes make it more important than ever to understand common red flags, take preventive steps, and act quickly if you suspect your identity has been compromised.

How to protect your identity

To help Canadians reduce their risk of ID theft and recover more quickly if they become victims, we’ve compiled practical guidance and resources. Below are curated articles and step‑by‑step guides that explain prevention techniques and what to do if identity theft happens.

• 7 ways to protect yourself from ID theft — Simple, high‑impact tips and tools to reduce your exposure to identity fraud.
• Your ID was stolen: here’s what to expect — Practical next steps, the potential impacts of ID theft, and where to get help in Canada.
• Discovered stolen identity — is it too late? — How to spot delayed signs of identity theft, protect your credit and begin recovery.
• Why do Canadians keep falling for scams? — How fraudsters become more convincing and what practical habits help reduce risk.

Protecting specific accounts and people

Identity theft can start through an email compromise, a hacked device, or social engineering aimed at seniors and younger adults alike. The resources below focus on protecting particular accounts and loved ones.

• How to protect your email account from scams and fraud — Email is a common gateway to other accounts; here’s how to secure it.
• How to protect your devices against identity theft — Best practices for phones, tablets and computers.
• How to help protect your loved ones from senior scams — Practical advice for keeping older family members safe from predators.
• Relationship fraud and romance scams: what to know — Recognition and recovery tips when a trusted contact is not who they claim to be.
• Mortgage fraud in Canada: how to protect yourself — How criminals may exploit stolen identities to target real estate and what you can do to prevent it.
• How to protect your CRA account from scams — Steps to secure tax accounts and avoid bogus filings or impostor calls.
• How to protect your bank account — Safe online banking habits, multi‑factor authentication and account monitoring tips.
• How to protect your passwords from fraud and identity theft — Why unique, strong passwords and a password manager matter.

Videos about fraud and scams

Short videos can make it easier to spot warning signs and learn immediate actions to take. The following clips cover identity theft indicators, the growing role of AI in fraud, and social‑media scams:

• Watch: 5 signs your identity was stolen
• Watch: 5 questions on identity theft
• Watch: AI and identity theft—what you need to know
• Watch: What is identity theft, and how is it impacting Canadians?
• Watch: The social media scams happening in Canada right now

How fraud and scams affect Canadians

Fraud affects people across all ages and income levels. Beyond immediate financial losses, victims may face long recovery times to restore credit and remove fraudulent accounts. The links below explain common schemes and outline concrete steps for victims and families.

• Financial fraud in Canada: What to do if your bank account or credit card is compromised
• Beware of CRA phone scams
• 10 common crypto scams and how to avoid them
• Phishing scams targeting young Canadians
• Lost wallet? How to protect yourself from fraud
• Canadian seniors, watch out for these scams
• Can I get scammed through an e‑transfer? Common questions about fraud protection

Practical prevention tips

Some practical, low‑effort steps to lower your risk:

• Use unique, strong passwords and a reputable password manager.
• Enable multi‑factor authentication on email, financial and government accounts.
• Monitor bank and credit statements frequently; set transaction alerts where available.
• Check your credit reports and consider a fraud alert or credit freeze if you suspect compromise.
• Keep devices and apps updated, use trusted security software, and avoid public Wi‑Fi for sensitive transactions.
• Be skeptical of unsolicited calls, texts or emails asking for personal details—verify using official contact numbers you trust.
• Educate family members, especially seniors and young adults, about common fraud tactics and signs of scams.
• Report incidents quickly to your financial institutions, credit bureaus and the CAFC to limit damage and aid recovery.