Scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick people into sharing personal information, sending money, or clicking malicious links. Whether it's an email, text message, phone call, or social media message, knowing how to recognize the warning signs can help you avoid becoming a victim.
The most important thing to remember is this: don't rush. Scammers rely on creating panic and urgency so you'll act before you have time to think. Here's a few tips to recognize a potential scam and what to do if you receive one.
If you receive an unexpected message asking you to click a link, verify your account, send money, or share personal information:
Taking a few extra minutes to verify a message can help protect your money and your personal information.
One of the first questions to ask is:
Do I know who this message is really from?
Scammers often impersonate trusted organizations like:
Look carefully at email addresses, phone numbers, and website URLs.
Fraudsters often make small changes that are easy to miss, such as:
When in doubt, contact the organization directly using the phone number listed on its official website.
Creating a sense of urgency is one of the most common scam tactics.
You may receive messages saying things like:
Scammers want you to react emotionally instead of thinking carefully. Legitimate organizations generally allow reasonable time to resolve issues and will not pressure you into making immediate payments or sharing sensitive information.
If you believe a message may be fraudulent:
Responding confirms that your email address or phone number is active and may result in additional scam attempts.
Be cautious if someone asks for information such as:
Legitimate financial institutions will not ask you to provide passwords, PINs, or verification codes through unsolicited emails, text messages, or phone calls.
Unexpected communications deserve extra attention, especially if they involve:
If you weren't expecting the message, verify it before taking any action.
If you're unsure whether a message is legitimate:
Using trusted contact information helps ensure you're communicating with the real organization.
Many scam messages contain:
While some scams are professionally written, obvious language issues remain a common warning sign.
Phishing attacks often rely on malicious links or attachments.
Before clicking anything:
If you're unsure, visit the company's website directly instead of using the link provided.
Fraud tactics change regularly.
Learning about common scams—including phishing, impersonation scams, romance scams, investment scams, and delivery scams—can help you recognize warning signs more quickly. Financial institutions and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre regularly share updates about emerging scams.
If something feels unusual, confusing, or too good to be true, take a moment to pause.
Ask yourself:
If the answer doesn't feel right, don't proceed until you've verified the request independently.
Common warning signs include:
Recognizing these warning signs early can help prevent fraud.
If you believe you've shared personal information or responded to a scam:
The sooner you act, the greater the opportunity to reduce potential losses.
How do I know if a text message is a scam?
Look for unexpected messages, urgent requests, suspicious links, spelling mistakes, and requests for personal or financial information.
Should I respond to a phishing email?
No. Avoid replying, clicking links, or opening attachments. Delete the message or report it as phishing.
Will my financial institution ask for my password?
No. Legitimate financial institutions will not ask for your password, PIN, or one-time verification code through unsolicited emails, texts, or phone calls.
What is the safest way to verify a suspicious message?
Contact the organization directly using the phone number or website you already know is legitimate. Never rely on the contact information provided in a suspicious message.
Scams continue to evolve, but the best defence remains the same: slow down, verify before you act, and protect your personal information. When something doesn't seem right, trust your instincts and confirm the request through official channels. A few extra minutes of caution can help prevent financial loss and identity theft.
YNCU members who know or suspect they are a victim of fraud or a scam can contact the Service Excellence Centre at 1-888-413-9628. You can also contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.