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BBB urges take control of your personal information
By Better Business Bureau
As Data Privacy Week (January 26 to 30) begins, the Better Business Bureau serving Mainland BC (BBB) is reminding Canadians that their personal information is one of their most valuable assets, and one of the easiest for scammers to exploit.
Protecting your data and understanding how it can be misused are essential steps in reducing fraud.
How data privacy scams work
Fraudsters only need a few small details, your name, birthdate, address, or even a one-time verification code, to impersonate you. With that information, they can apply for loans, access financial accounts, or file fraudulent tax returns. These details are often collected through phishing emails, fake websites, data breaches, social media quizzes, and other deceptive tactics designed to get you to overshare.
BBB top data privacy tips:
1) Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Avoid reusing passwords across accounts and add extra security wherever possible.
2) Be cautious with personal information. Your SIN is only required in specific circumstances (e.g., CRA, employers, financial institutions). Decline when it’s not mandatory.
3) Review and adjust your social media privacy settings. Limit who can see your posts and personal details, oversharing makes you a target.
4) Check your credit reports regularly. Canadians can access free credit reports from Equifax and TransUnion.
5) Shred sensitive documents. Never place unshredded personal mail directly in the recycling bin.
6) Stay alert to phishing attempts. Don’t click on unsolicited links or respond to unexpected messages asking for personal or financial information. If something feels off, contact the organization directly.
7) Protect yourself from phishing. Never click on unsolicited links or respond to unexpected messages requesting your personal or financial information. When in doubt, contact the company directly.
8) Act quickly if your information is exposed. Report suspicious activity to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and submit incidents to BBB Scam Tracker.
“When you understand how your information is being collected and what scammers look for, you can make smarter choices every day, and that confidence goes a long way,” said Neesha Hothi, Director of Marketing & Communications for Better Business Bureau serving Mainland BC.
BBB encourages all Canadians to use Data Privacy Week as a moment to review habits, strengthen safeguards, and stay informed. Protecting your data protects your financial future.
