Written by: Buffini & Co.

Identity theft happens when a fraudster hijacks your personal information for their own gain. Nearly 35,000 Canadians were reported to be victimized in 2024 although the number may be higher with many too embarrassed to admit to it. Secure Your Identity

• Monitor your credit cards/reports
• Sign up for fraud alerts
• Create complex passwords
• Use two-factor authentication
• Install antivirus software

Protect Yourself As fraudsters become more tech-savvy, consumers must be as well. Share these tips with your family and friends, especially younger adults and seniors. Do:

• Have a "code" word for family members for phone calls and texts.
• Verify requests from calls, emails, texts, social media or unexpected letters with a trusted source.
• Ensure websites are legit (look for the padlock icon or correct URL spelling).
• Be cautious using public Wi-Fi.
• Collect your mail regularly.
• Shred papers you don't need.

Don't:

• Click on links in text messages.
• Respond to "wrong number" texts.
• Use QR codes you don't trust.
• Contact companies if they sent a package you didn't expect.
• Overshare on social media.
• Respond to "urgent" messages from sources you can't verify.