PIAC’s submission pointed to the underlying gaps that should be considered to have a more comprehensive national anti-fraud policy. PIAC also submitted that the measures being presently considered do not go far enough in terms of raising consumer awareness, as well as protecting against fraud. Consumer losses and liability are key issues that should be a central part of any anti-fraud strategy.

Importantly, PIAC noted that we need practical steps planned and executed to make any changes work, just peripheral discussion on these issues does not and cannot do much. Consumers have been suffering from fraud, particularly vulnerable consumers, including seniors with limited to no redress. Consumers in these cases are often left with considerable liabilities and/or losses that could in some cases jeopardize their entire life savings. It is about time for some clear and concrete action.

Last year in December 2025, PIAC appeared before the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Commerce and the Economy (BANC Committee) to discuss its views and concerns regarding Bill C-15, Division 16 (Bank Act, Consumer-targeted Fraud). The written brief submitted to the BANC Committee was sent with these comments.

See here for PIAC’s comments to the National Anti-Fraud Strategy consultation.

For PIAC’s Comments to the BANC Committee on Bill C-15, Division 16 (Bank Act, Consumer-targeted Fraud), see here.

The post PIAC Commented on the National Anti-Fraud Strategy appeared first on Public Interest Advocacy Centre.

In these times of uncertainty, the Public Interest Advocacy Centre encourages you to exercise extreme caution to avoid falling for these scams and protect your finances. Reportedly, scammers are using various techniques such as phone calls, text messages, emails and door-to-door tactics to exploit consumers’ fears and target potential victims. We also strongly urge you to be wary of the misinformation surrounding COVID-19 and consider relying on official federal and provincial resources. We look at some common examples of COVID-19 related scams and the tips and tools available on how you can protect yourself from fraud.

Here are a few common examples of COVID-19 scams that we came across. Please note this is not meant to be an exhaustive list of scams:

Phishing emails

Phishing emails related to the coronavirus often feature eye-catching yet misleading   information. The aim of these emails is to get vulnerable consumers to disclose information or to download or click on malware. If you receive an email about COVID-19 with a link to get help or find cures, do not click the URL. If it appears to be from a source you trust, visit that source’s website directly.

Fake government websites

Scammers are sending messages via email and texts while pretending to be from government sources. They are also mimicking government websites that are filled with misleading links used to commit financial fraud. Do not click on links in emails or text messages, always verify government sources before giving any sensitive information.

Advertising scams

Additionally, scammers are luring consumers by posing as various companies and organizations claiming they are offering fake products and services meant to combat COVID-19. After clicking on these links, consumers are requested to input their financial information. Only a medical professional can give you proper medical advice for COVID-19, consult your doctor or provincial telemedicine before purchasing anything.

Exploitation calls

This method leverages on fear and involves calling random numbers and telling consumers that they have screened positive for coronavirus and demanding for their health card number along with their bank account information. If anyone calls you directly for personal information, again you should verify the source independently and not give away your information.

How to protect yourself?

Scammers are using consumers’ anxiety regarding COVID-19 to gain unfair advantage. Keep in mind these tips on how you can protect yourself from fraud:

• If you receive suspicious emails, don’t open any links
• Do not give out sensitive personal information by email or over a text message
• Monitor official sources for reliable information
• Regularly keep tabs on your bank accounts to spot suspicious charges and activities
• Be wary of unfamiliar phone numbers

For more information on how to protect yourself from financial fraud, visit:

COVID-19: Warning of potential financial fraud

If you have become a victim of fraud and need to report it, visit Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s website and see: What to do if you’re a victim of fraud

To find out how the Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) continuously fights against spam and financial fraud, visit https://www.piac.ca/ or subscribe to our newsletter. Stay safe and stay aware!

We remind consumers that PIAC is not a law firm and that the information provided here does not constitute legal advice; all information provided and content available is for general informational purposes only.

The post Beware of COVID-19 Scams: Recognize and Protect yourself from COVID-19 Fraud appeared first on Public Interest Advocacy Centre.