Social media scams often exploit heartbreaking stories, like life-threatening illnesses or serious accidents. Scammers create posts pretending to be people needing help with medical bills and request donations via GoFundMe or third-party apps like Venmo or CashApp.

• These pleas often come from copied Facebook accounts with stolen photos and information.

• Once money is transferred, the accounts disappear, leaving donors unprotected.

• Tip: Always verify fundraisers independently. Use trusted charities or platforms like Charity Navigator or GuideStar.

Clickbait Scams

Fraudsters post content designed to trigger strong emotional reactions. Examples:

• Tempting sales or promotions asking users to “like, comment, and share.”

• Links to scam sites that install malware or request personal information, including credit card numbers or Social Security info.

Giveaway & Lottery Scams

• Giveaways: Fake contests ask for personal information or require clicking a link that installs malware. Legitimate giveaways never ask for upfront fees or credit card details.

• Lottery Scams: Strangers claiming they won the lottery and want to share the prize often request “processing fees” via gift cards. Too good to be true? It is.

Facebook Quiz Scams

• Some quizzes ask for personal info such as mother’s maiden name or other sensitive details.

• Scammers use this to access accounts or sell data to hackers.

• Tip: Avoid sharing addresses, phone numbers, or emails in quizzes.

Cloned Accounts & Spoofing

• Scammers clone real profiles to trick friends into clicking links for scams or malware.

• Spoofing attacks impersonate friends, celebrities, or organizations to ask for money or gifts.

• Tip: Always verify unusual requests with the person directly.

Spam & Fake Coupon Codes

• Fraudsters may offer fake promo codes or deals requiring personal information.

• Tip: Verify offers via official brand pages before sharing personal data.

Facebook Messenger Scams

• Scammers send requests for money, loans, or lottery winnings.

• Most unsolicited messages are fraudulent, especially if you have never contacted the sender before.

Fundraiser & Malware Scams

• After disasters or tragedies, scammers post links to steal info or money.

• Malware attacks may appear as “Flash Player updates” or suspicious links claiming to show messages from friends.

• Tip: Don’t click unknown links. Verify with the source first.

Romance Scams

• Scammers build trust online before asking for money or gifts.

• Emergencies may be fabricated to pressure victims.

• In 2023, Canadians lost nearly $1.14 billion to romance scams.

Job Scams

• Fraudulent jobs promise high salaries from home but collect sensitive data such as bank details or Social Security numbers.

• Variations may resemble pyramid schemes requiring upfront payments or product purchases.

Fraudulent Apps & Phishing

• Ads claiming you can see who viewed your profile are scams.

• Phishing messages impersonate Facebook to steal login information or install malware.

• Tip: Never click links from suspicious messages; always log in via official websites.

Facebook Marketplace Scams

• Fraudsters request payment outside Facebook or list fake products/rentals.

• Tip: Use Facebook Purchase Protection for transactions.

How to Avoid Facebook Scams

• Do not click suspicious links or sensational videos.

• Log in directly via your browser if you receive account alerts.

• Regularly review privacy settings.

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.

• Verify messages from friends outside Facebook.

• Never share sensitive info (SSN, credit card) on Messenger.

• Delete friend requests from strangers.

Loan & Inheritance Scams

• Loan Scams: Promises of instant loans with low fees; fraudsters may disappear after initial payment.

• Inheritance Scams: Fake lawyers contact victims claiming they are owed an inheritance, requesting personal info.

Smishing (SMS Scams)

• Text messages impersonating legitimate businesses ask you to click links or provide personal info.

• AI may be used to craft convincing messages using personal details.

Tech Support Scams

• Scammers call or display fake error messages, asking users to install software giving them remote access.

• They then charge fees for fake “solutions.”

Debit Card Fraud & Protection

Common methods:

• Skimming devices on payment terminals.

• Shoulder surfing PINs.

• Phishing emails or calls pretending to be bank employees.

• Accessing lost/stolen mobile devices.

Protection tips:

• Keep your card safe and in sight.

• Never share your PIN.

• Check account statements regularly.

• Use secure devices and avoid public Wi-Fi for banking.

• Contact your bank immediately if your card is lost, stolen, or compromised.

Insurance Scams in Canada

Fraudsters sell fake insurance policies, targeting newcomers or uninformed buyers.

Red flags:

• Fake policies or brokers.

• Phishing emails or calls.

• Too-good-to-be-true offers or urgency to buy.

• Unusual payment methods (gift cards).

Protection:

• Verify broker/insurer registration with your provincial regulator.

• Stop communications with suspected scammers.

• Notify your bank, insurance regulator, and police.

Reporting Fraud

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC): 1-888-495-8501
National Cybercrime and Fraud Reporting System (NCFRS)