# data[].attributes.body
Here you will learn all about identity theft, tips to combat fraud and a few cases of people attempting to steal other's identities. Identity Theft occurs when someone attempts to obtain someone else's personal information and use it as their own. This person may attempt to acquire government documents, credit cards and loans or any goods or services. We have attached a lighthearted video from Credit Karma to introduce our topic. They provided an example of how identity theft could easily happen. By using Credit Karma's website, identity theft may be more avoidable.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Nimble director, Matthew Bissonnette, digs deep for iconic Canadiana in this latest spot for Credit Karma. Take a guy dressed like a Mountie, carrying a hockey stick, and riding a giant moose while chugging maple syrup, then pepper in some sharp writing – hockey = "skatey punchy" and you've got the making of a seriously funny spot.

Director: Matthew Bissonnette
Production: Nimble Content
Client: Credit Karma

# data[].attributes.body
In this image, Radio Canada international describes a few statistics of Identity Theft and fraud in Canada. This image includes statistics on Millennials, men and women. 27,000 Canadians fall victim to fraud every year, but this number is likely inaccurate because some fraud goes unreported.

# data[].attributes.body
In this image, Multi-Prets Mortgages has created a simple way to identify steps to go through if someone believes that they are a victim of identity theft. The most important step would be to act quickly and contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre immediately and to keep a record of the case number.

# data[].attributes.body
Identity theft refers to criminals stealing someone else’s personal information. Identify theft can happen from ‘dumpster diving’ or mail theft. It can also happen from phishing or database breaches. There are many ways for fraudsters to use someone else’s personal information such as access to computers, bank accounts, bank balances, apply for passport or government documents, apply for loans, or credit card and buy goods or services. There are a few ways to be protected by an identity fraud scam. Be aware of suspicious emails, texts, and phone calls. Check bank and credit statements regularly for any differences. Shred any financial or personal documents before throwing in the garbage.

This website is a great tool to be educated on not only identity fraud but every type of fraud. We found it interesting that the website offers tips on how to be protected by all types of fraud. They also offer a tool to report fraud to help bring awareness to the type of scam.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre collects information on fraud and identity theft. We provide information on past and current scams affecting Canadians. If you think you’re a victim of fraud, report it!

# data[].attributes.headline
Man Charged for Trying to Buy $170k Cadillac with Fraudulent ID

# data[].attributes.subject
Man Charged for Trying to Buy $170k Cadillac with Fraudulent ID

# data[].attributes.body
A man in St. Catharines, Ontario was charged for allegedly trying to purchase a luxury vehicle with someone else’s identification. The man was attempting to buy a 2021 Cadillac Escalade, valued at about $170,000. Employees at Cars Unlimited, called the police during the transaction. When the authorities arrived, he identified himself as the other person. After investigation, officers found two pieces of identification, a social insurance card and a British Columbia driver’s license. The man is facing four charges including identity theft and fraud over $5,000.

We chose this article because of how easy it can be for fraudsters to begin a transaction with a fraudulent ID. Luckily, the employees were trained enough to identify a fraudulent person and he was stopped before it was too late.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Police in St. Catharines, Ont., have charged a man for allegedly trying to purchase a high-end vehicle at a dealership with someone else's identification on Wednesday.

Investigators say the 34-year-old from Windsor was attempting to buy a 2021 Cadillac Escalade, valued at nearly $170,000, at Cars Unlimited on Church Street.

During the transaction, employees from the dealership reached out to police.

"The male suspect attempted to falsely identify himself to ... officers with the fraudulent identification, " Niagara Regional Police said in a release.

"Officers determined the suspect was in possession of two fraudulent pieces of identification; a social insurance card, and a British Columbia driver's licence."

Story continues below advertisement

The accused is facing four charges including identity theft and fraud over $5,000.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Man charged for trying to buy $170K Cadillac with fraudulent ID in St. Catharines: police - Hamilton | Globalnews.ca

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Police in St. Catharines, Ont., have charged a man for allegedly trying to purchase a high-end vehicle at a dealership with someone else's identification on Wednesday. Investigators say the 34-year-old from Windsor was attempting to buy a 2021 Cadillac Escalade, valued at nearly $170,000, at Cars Unlimited on Church Street.

# data[].attributes.body
During one of the hardest times in recent history, which in turn hurt a lot of people financially, Canadians were still falling victim of not being able to get the CERB relief benefit as they had their identities stolen. In this video, CBC national interviews one woman who was affected and unable to receive a fourth payment of CERB.

In August 2020, just a few months since the pandemic started, the Canadian Anti-Fraud centre had received more then 700 complaints about identity fraud, most people in being affected in Quebec. Scammers were able to hack into victim’s accounts and accept cheques on behalf of other people, and though the government said they will receive the money they deserve; they have no idea when things would be fixed, hurting the victims even more. Its sad to see that during such hard times, people still thrive off the vulnerability of people, making their lives even harder.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Hundreds denied CERB payments because of identity theft

# data[].attributes.body
Global News in Calgary spoke to Sgt. Matt Frederikson from the Calgary Police Service fraud team and discusses ways to avoid being a victim of identity theft.

Watching this video, we are reminded how many steps ahead scammers are, even to the Police. They shut one down and another one is right behind it, or even already in motion. Sgt. Frederikson states how your identity could be work even more than the money in your bank account. Back in the day it used to just be about getting your money, now its about using your identity to lease vehicles, apply for credit cards and so much more. As more and more are done online, it is making it harder to find out sooner then later whether you have become a victim, we used to receive everything in the mail years ago making it easier to stop something before it happened.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What you need to know to prevent identity theft | Watch News Videos Online

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Watch What you need to know to prevent identity theft Video Online, on GlobalNews.ca

# data[].attributes.headline
Toronto Woman Accused of Stealing 20 Identities

# data[].attributes.subject
Toronto Woman Accused of Stealing 20 Identities

# data[].attributes.body
In 2019, police were able to arrest a woman who has been accused of stealing the identity of at least 20 people. They stated this is one of the most prolific situations of identity theft and still don’t know the extent of the damage she has caused people. She went by at least 10 different alias’ and had more than 50 plus charges all about stealing people’s identity.

What is interesting about this is how “normal” she looks, which was a huge advantage for her, and no one suspected her until it was too late. However, there were several documents with different spellings of her name which makes it still up for debate whether that was her real name or not. She was able to make it look easy stealing social insurance numbers and essentially “cloning” people’s identity.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Toronto woman accused of stealing 20 identities

# data[].attributes.body
Thousands of Canadians fall victim to identify theft every year and unfortunately don’t find out until its to late. Questions are asking to help teach viewers the signs to look for to know if you are a victim of identify theft. Expert Jeffery Swartz answers these questions, he is the Executive Director of Consolidated Credit Counselling Services of Canada.

What we found interesting is the amount of people who have no idea they have fallen victim. It isn’t until you get calls from collection agencies about bills you have no idea exist or mail stating you have been excepted for credit you never applied for. The number of cases in 2014 had doubled since 2008. The internet has become a huge factor in numbers increasing over the years. Jeffery gives tips on how to avoid this situation, one being strong passwords, avoid using birthdays, spouse’s names, etc. and changing them frequently is important.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Identifying and preventing identity theft

# data[].attributes.headline
Gen Z Not Concerned about Fraud and Identity Theft

# data[].attributes.subject
Gen Z Not Concerned about Fraud and Identity Theft

# data[].attributes.body
Most Canadians agree that fraud and identity theft is a serious issue. The Gen Z generation (adults from18-24) have said that identity theft is not likely to happen to them. After conducting a census, only 75% of Gen Z agree that fraud is a serious issue. They are also less likely to agree with the older generation when it comes to statements like companies need to a better job in protecting people’s information. Both generations believe that the government needs to do a better job in educating its people on fraud and identity theft.

We chose this website because of its in-depth details of a survey conducted to analyze how the population feel about fraud and identity theft. We found it interesting and surprising that Gen Z doesn’t feel that fraud is a serious issue. But that they also feel that the government needs to do more educating on the topic.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
TORONTO, March 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- While most Canadians agree (90 per cent) that fraud and identity theft is a serious issue, Gen Z (adults aged 18-24) are more likely to say that identity theft is not likely to happen to them (29 per cent versus 16 per cent of the general population) according to a recent consumer survey conducted by Equifax Canada in advance of Fraud Prevention Month.

Only 75 per cent of Gen Z agree that fraud and identity theft is a serious issue. They are also less likely to agree compared to their older counterparts when it comes to statements like companies need to do a better job in protecting their personal information (68 per cent versus 88 per cent), that they have responsibility to protect their personal information (71 per cent versus 87 cent), and that governments should increase penalties for fraud and identity theft (68 per cent versus 86 per cent). They are also significantly less likely to agree that the government needs to do a better job educating people about ways to protect their personal information (73 per cent versus 83 per cent of the general population).

"Regardless of age, most people want their government to do a better job educating about fraud and identity theft," said Julie Kuzmic, Equifax Canada's Senior Compliance Officer, Consumer Advocacy. "It's very clear that better communication is needed to warn younger generations about the dangers associated with fraud and identity theft. Criminals engaged in this type of crime can be quick to prey upon people who don't have their defenses up. All generations and companies of all sizes should be doing their utmost to prevent and detect these crimes. One of the best ways for consumers to do this is to routinely check their credit reports for any suspicious activity. You can request a free copy of your Equifax credit report by phone, mail, in person, and online."

STOPPING FRAUD BEFORE IT HAPPENS
The survey findings also make it clear that fear and vulnerability are stronger for older generations whether it's online, on-the-go, at home or in-store. Importantly, there is substantial recognition that you can be quite vulnerable online, which is consistent across the generations. Gen Z, however, is once again less concerned and significantly less likely to take steps to prevent fraud before it happens.

As the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way Canadians work, learn, shop, and interact, 70 per cent say they are screening their calls more to avoid calls from fraudsters (63 per cent say they're receiving these calls more frequently). A similar number (69 per cent) are reviewing their credit card and bank statements more closely for signs of fraud, with women, those aged 55+, and Quebecers significantly more likely to say this. Half (53 per cent) are changing their online passwords more often and roughly four-in-ten are checking their credit reports more (45 per cent). Quebecers are significantly more likely to have checked their credit reports more, are less likely to have screened their calls, feel they are getting more fraudulent calls, and feel more at risk to fraud and identity thieves compared to those in the rest of Canada.

Two-factor authentication (a method of verifying a person's identity by using an additional factor such as sending a PIN via email or text) is becoming more popular with 35 per cent of consumers using it now versus 26 per cent two years ago. Nearly eight-in-ten (78 per cent) say they would be more likely to choose an organization/retailer that used multiple steps to protect their information, although half as many (34 per cent) would prefer an organization/retailer that had fewer steps to verify who they are, especially men and those under age 55.

KNOWING WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO GET INFORMATION
While most Canadians (77 per cent) are taking multiple steps to protect their personal information, more than half wouldn't know what to do (56 per cent) if there was fraud committed in their name. Two-thirds (63 per cent) of Canadians get advice about how to protect their personal information from at least one source (39 per cent check out two or more) with using banks (33 per cent) and credit card companies (27 per cent) as their source of information, slightly ahead of other experts. Two-in-ten currently get this information from credit bureaus such as Equifax (20 per cent), or from mainstream media (19 per cent). Quebecers are twice as likely to get advice about protection of personal information from credit bureaus (32 per cent versus 16 per cent in the rest of Canada). Gen Z is also less likely to turn to credit bureaus for information about how to protect their personal information.

"It's encouraging to see more people recognizing the need to better protect their personal information," said Kuzmic. "It can be as simple as creating a monthly reminder to change your passwords, double-checking financial statements, and shredding those documents versus putting them in the recycling where a dumpster diver could find them. Consumers seem to be realizing it's in their interest to play a more active role in protecting their personal data."

To that end, just over half (53 per cent) of the survey respondents believe it's reasonable that their bank would no longer protect them from any type of fraud if they have shared their banking passwords and 35 per cent admit they have accidentally clicked on a fraudulent link through email or text.

"Criminals are often waiting to take advantage of you and it's important to take steps to protect your personal information," added Kuzmic. "Consumers who are concerned about identity theft can always contact us to place a free identity alert on their Equifax credit report."

More tips on ways to help protect your personal information can be found on the company's website at: https://www.consumer.equifax.ca/personal/education/identity/. Consumers wishing to place an alert on their Equifax credit report can learn how to do so on our website at: https://www.consumer.equifax.ca/personal/education/identity/how-can-i-place-a-fraud-alert-on-my-equifax-credit-report/.

Equifax surveyed 1,537 Canadians ages 18-65, Feb. 11-13. A probability sample of the
Media Contacts: same size would yield a margin of error of +/- 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.
About Equifax
At Equifax (NYSE: EFX), we believe knowledge drives progress. As a global data, analytics, and technology company, we play an essential role in the global economy by helping financial institutions, companies, employers, and government agencies make critical decisions with greater confidence. Our unique blend of differentiated data, analytics, and cloud technology drives insights to power decisions to move people forward. Headquartered in Atlanta and supported by more than 13,000 employees worldwide, Equifax operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America, Central and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region. For more information, visit .

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Gen Z less concerned about fraud and identity theft according to Equifax Canada survey

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
TORONTO, March 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- While most Canadians agree (90 per cent) that fraud and identity theft is a serious issue, Gen Z (adults aged 18-24) are more likely to say that identity theft is not likely to happen to them (29 per cent versus 16 per cent of the general population) according to a recent consumer survey conducted by Equifax Canada in advance of Fraud Prevention Month.

# data[].attributes.body
Fraud Prevention Month was made to educate Canadians on fraud and how it can impact their communities. The RCMP’s focus for 2022 is online scams, mass marketing and phone scams, business and fraud scams, identity theft and cryptocurrency scams. In 2021 there 106,306 reports of fraud in Canada. There was almost $380 million lost to fraud in 2021 and as of January 31, 2022, there has been $34 million. The RCMP is encouraging anyone who believe they have been scammed, to contact their bank or credit card immediately. The RCMP is also sharing tips and tools on social media like Facebook and Twitter.

We chose this website because of the useful tips coming from the RCMP and them promoting their social media to encourage people to educate themselves on different types of fraud. We found the amount of money lost due to fraud astonishing. Every year, there are different way for people to be scammed meaning even more money lost.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
March marks Fraud Prevention Month and Alberta RCMP is sharing tips and tolls in support of the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association 's (ACCPA) annual initiative.

Every year ACCPA launches Fraud Prevention Month to educate Albertans on fraud activity and how it directly impacts their communities.

Using the hashtag #FPM2022 on social media, the RCMP's focus this year include online scams, mass marketing and phone scams, business and fraud scams, identity theft and cryptocurrency scams.

"Educating yourself on how to identity fraudulent activity is crucial," explained Cpl. Sean Milne, Alberta RCMP Provincial Economic Crime Team. "Today, with more and more online financial platforms and digital payment systems, there is increasing opportunity for scammers to get the better of you."

In 2021, there were 106,306 reports of fraud in Canada and 67,533 people fell victim to fraud, according to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. There was about $380-million lost to fraud in Canada in 2021, and as of Jan. 31, 2022, there has been $34-million lost to fraud.

RCMP said if you believe you've fallen victim to fraud, be sure to contact your banks and credit card companies immediately.

Alberta RCMP is also sharing tips and tools on its Facebook page at RCMP in Alberta or on its Twitter account at @RCMPAlberta.

"We want to equip Albertans with the tools to be able to spot a scam and protect themselves, so that they may avoid any potential risk to their personal finances or information," Milne said.

If you think you might be being targeted in a scam, you can find out more information at canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/fraud-scams.

If you have been the victim of fraud, you can report it to Strathcona County RCMP at 780-467-7741. You can also report your incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at antifraudcenter.ca or by calling 1-888-495-8501.
tdosser@postmedia.com twitter.com/travisdosser

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
March marks Fraud Prevention Month and Alberta RCMP is sharing tips and tolls in support of the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association 's (ACCPA) annual initiative. Every year ACCPA launches Fraud Prevention Month to educate Albertans on fraud activity and how it directly impacts their communities.