Learn about the most common scams targeting seniors in Canada and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Grandparent Scam
Scammers call pretending to be your grandchild (or a friend/police officer) in urgent trouble — often an accident, arrest, or medical emergency. They demand immediate money via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency to "help."
Warning Signs
Caller insists on secrecy ("Don't tell mom/dad").
Urgency: Money needed "right now" to avoid jail/harm.
Payment via untraceable methods (gift cards, crypto, wire).
How to Protect Yourself
Verify by calling the grandchild using a known number.
Never send money or gift cards to strangers.
Hang up and call family/friends directly.
Report to Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501).
In 2023, emergency/grandparent scams caused millions in losses across Canada, with seniors making up ~90% of victims in some provinces (e.g., Alberta reported ~$4M from ~180 victims).
Tech Support Scam
Scammers use pop-ups, calls, or emails claiming your computer is hacked, infected, or needs "urgent" fixes. They ask for remote access or payment to "resolve" it.
Warning Signs
Unsolicited call/email/pop-up with "virus alert".
Pressure to give remote access (TeamViewer, AnyDesk).
Payment demanded via gift cards or crypto.
How to Protect Yourself
Hang up or close pop-up — never allow remote access.
Use official support from your software/hardware company.
Install reputable antivirus (e.g., Malwarebytes, Windows Defender).
Report to police or CAFC.
These scams often target seniors with fake "Microsoft" or "Windows" alerts, leading to thousands in losses per victim.
Romance Scam
Fraudsters build fake online relationships (dating apps, social media) to gain trust, then ask for money (emergencies, travel, investments, or crypto schemes).
Warning Signs
Avoids video calls or meeting in person.
Stories of hardship (sick family, travel issues).
Requests money/gift cards/crypto quickly.
How to Protect Yourself
Never send money to someone you've never met in person.
Use reverse image search on profile photos.
Report suspicious profiles to the app/site and CAFC.
Video call early to verify identity.
In 2023, romance scams caused tens of millions in losses nationally, with seniors often targeted and average losses per victim in the tens of thousands.
Government Impersonation Scam
Scammers pose as CRA, Service Canada, or police, threatening arrest, fines, or benefit cuts unless you pay immediately (often via gift cards or wire).
Warning Signs
Caller demands immediate payment for "taxes" or "fees".
Threatens arrest or deportation.
Asks for gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers.
How to Protect Yourself
Government agencies never demand payment by phone or gift cards.
Hang up and call official numbers (e.g., CRA 1-800-959-8281).
Never share SIN or bank details over unsolicited calls.
Report to CAFC or police.
These scams spike during tax season and target seniors with fears of legal trouble.
Investment / Crypto Scam
Promises of high returns with low risk, often via social media, email, or fake platforms. Victims send money/crypto to scammers who disappear.
Warning Signs
"Guaranteed" high returns or "secret" opportunities.
Pressure to invest quickly.
Fake platforms/apps with manipulated results.
How to Protect Yourself
Verify investments through licensed advisors (CIRO check).
Avoid unsolicited offers, especially crypto-related.
Never send money to recover "lost" funds.
Report suspicious offers to CAFC or police.
Investment scams led losses in 2023, with many seniors losing tens of thousands to fake crypto schemes.