Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Golden Rules of Fraud Prevention

Golden Rules

Remember these golden rules to help you beat the scammers.
·        Always get independent advice if an offer involves money, personal information, time or commitment.
·        There are no guaranteed get-rich-quick schemes—sometimes the only people who make money are the scammers.
·        Do not agree to offers or deals right away. If you think you have spotted a great opportunity, insist on time to get independent advice before making a decision.
·        Do not hand over money or personal information, or sign anything until you have done your homework and checked the credentials of the company that you are dealing with.
·        Do not rely on glowing testimonials: find solid evidence of a company's success.
·        Log directly on to a website that you are interested in rather than clicking on links provided in an email.
·        Never send money, or give credit card or online account details to anyone you do not know and trust.
·        If you spot a scam or have been scammed, get help. Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, the Competition Bureau or your local police for assistance.
Report It! Stop It!
Stopping fraudsters is critical. By reporting a scam, you help prevent others from becoming fraud victims. The information you provide is important! If you decide to file a complaint, it is important that you keep any evidence you may have related to your complaint. Keep items in a safe location in the event that you are requested to provide them. This information may form an important part of any investigation. The information you provide could be used as evidence during a prosecution.
To report a scam, contact the:
Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
www.antifraudcentre.ca or call 1-888-495-8501
In addition, credit bureaus can put a fraud alert on your account, which will alert lenders and creditors of potential fraud:
Equifax: 1-800-465-7166
TransUnion: 1-866-525-0262
1-877-713-3393 for Quebec residents
Your local police, credit card companies, credit unions and provincial records offices can also be of assistance.
Stay tuned for more about fraud in the coming days.

Click here for more about fraud.
* With information from the Government of Canada Competition Bureau web site and The Little Black Book of Scams published by the Competition Bureau Canada 2012.

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