With tax season approaching, awareness of fraud and cybersecurity is particularly prevalent.  More Canadians are online filing taxes and sharing information, and cyber criminals take advantage of this to try to steal information. Here are a few tips to remember to keep yourself safe from fraud:  

Stay Alert 

Remember that the CRA or any financial institution will never contact you and ask for your personal and financial information such as passwords, account numbers, or SIN number.  If you are unsure if you are receiving a scam message, do not click any links and reach out to the organization claiming to send you messages using their official contact number on their website. If you think you are receiving a fraudulent phone call, hang up and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.  

Protect your Passwords 

Protect your card PINS and keep your passwords safe. The best way to protect your passwords is by updating them regularly. Use unique passwords for your various accounts and make sure passwords are complex and difficult to guess. You can use a password safe app or software to store your passwords in a secure place.  Find out more about password habits you should adopt.

Look through your Financial Statements 

Review your bank and credit card statements regularly and watch for any transactions that you do not recognize or are out of the ordinary. Contact Provincial Credit Union, or your financial institution, right away if you see anything suspicious.  

Shred Sensitive Information 

Shred documents, including receipts and bills that contain your financial information.  

Find more information on the types of scams to look out for during tax season here. You can report fraud or a cybercrime online at the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.