Fraud Myths
Fraud Myths
A variety of myths surround fraud and victims of fraud. Knowing how fraud works can help protect you against this crime.
Myth: Those who commit fraud only target older adults.
Fact: Fraud is a crime that threatens all Canadians, regardless of background, education, age, gender or income.
Myth: Victims of fraud should have known better.
Fact: It's about scammers taking advantage of a persons trust, emotions, and creating urgency. They can use new and creative ways to trick people, and anyone can be a victim of fraud.
Myth: Fraud is not a serious crime.
Fact: Fraud is a crime that affects more than just finances—it can damage relationships, cause self-doubt, embarrassment, stress, isolation, and loss of confidence and trust, leading to serious challenges in a person’s life.
Myth: I have already been a victim of fraud; it can't happen to me again.
Fact: Once you have been a victim of fraud, you are at a higher risk of being targeted again. Scammers often share personal information and take advantage of past victims. They may pose as government officials or authority figures, sometimes even promising to recover your lost money.