Scam Prevention - Staying Safe from Computer and Text Scams

Don’t Let Scammers In Learn How to Recognize and Block Their Tricks Before They Reach You

Let’s talk about computer and text scams, because they are becoming more common these days. In 2024, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) received 108,878 reports of fraud. Sadly, people lost more than $638 million to these scams last year. Scammers are getting clever, too—they’re even using artificial intelligence to make their messages look more real and convincing, which means anyone can be a target.

If you want to stay safe, the best thing you can do is learn how these scams work and what to look out for. Sometimes, scammers will call out of the blue, pretending to just "check something," or they’ll send messages with dangerous links. Clicking on the wrong link (even by accident) can install harmful software on your phone or computer and give scammers access to your personal details.

Here are some simple tips that anyone can use to help prevent these scams:

• Be careful before clicking on any links or opening files, especially if you didn’t expect to receive them. These can hide viruses or programs that let scammers into your device.

  
  

• Watch out for emails or texts where the name doesn’t match the email address, or the message asks you to act quickly—these are big warning signs.

  
  

• Don’t trust pop-up messages or emails that urge you to call a number right away. Real companies won’t pressure you like that.

  
  

• If you get a call or text from a number you don’t recognize, don’t answer or reply. Scammers often use random messages to check if your number is real and active.

  
  

• Be aware that scammers can now record and use your voice with new technology. Avoid sharing voice recordings with strangers.

  
  

• Never give anyone remote access to your computer or device if they contact you unexpectedly—even if they say they’re from well-known companies like Microsoft.

  
  

• Make sure your computer or phone has up-to-date security software. Using ad blockers like uBlock Origin can also help—you’ll see fewer risky ads that sometimes install malware without clicking.

  
  

• Avoid replying to suspicious texts, even if you want them to stop. Replying only proves your number is working.

  
  

• If an offer sounds too good to be true, or if someone puts pressure on you to send money quickly, take a moment and double-check everything. When in doubt, ask someone you trust before acting.

  
  

If you make a mistake—like clicking a link and feeling uneasy—do a virus scan on your device. Use trusted programs like Windows Defender or Malwarebytes. Don’t just search the internet for “malware scanner” because some of the results could be fake.

Reporting scams is also important. If something happens, or even if you spot a scam but don’t fall for it, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. The more people who report, the harder it becomes for scammers to succeed.

For extra protection, use a password manager (not just your browser’s "remember password" feature), set up two-factor authentication (this gives your accounts an extra security step), and turn on automatic updates for your security software and Windows Defender. These small steps make a big difference in keeping you safe.

Stay alert and cautious, and you’ll make it much harder for scammers to win!