Every year, Canadians fall victim to online, mail, phone and in-person fraud, losing millions of dollars. Also, remember these few rules from the Little Black Book of Fraud published by the Competition Bureau of Canada in order to adequately protect you:

• Never accept an offer and never enter into an agreement on the spot. If you think you have seized a good opportunity, take the time to ask for objective advice before taking action, and insist that you be given this period of reflection.
• If an offer is made to you requiring money, personal information or a personal commitment, always seek objective advice.
• Never give money or your personal information, and sign nothing until you have done your homework and checked the background of the company you are dealing with.
• Don’t rely on glowing testimonials: find concrete evidence of a company’s success.
• If a website interests you, go directly to it rather than clicking on the links provided in an email
• Never send money or credit card or bank account details to someone you don’t know and trust.

If you notice fraud or if you have been a victim of it, ask for help. Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1.888.495.8501 or with your local police service.

Note: Vendors who come to your door may sometimes use aggressive sales methods, so since January 1, 2017, the sale of energy products from door-to-door is prohibited.