Identity Theft Fraud
When someone steals and uses another person’s personal information to carry out fraud.
How it works
Red flags that you may be a victim of identity theft and fraud include:
- A creditor informs you that a credit application was received with your name and address. You did not submit the application.
- A collection agency informs you that they are collecting for a defaulted account established in your name. You never opened the account.
- You no longer receive credit card statements or you notice that not all of your mail is being delivered.
- An individual posing as a representative of an agency you do business with, like an insurance agent, sends you an email requesting personal information about you or your finances.
How to protect yourself
- Be wary of unsolicited emails, telephone calls, or mail attempting to extract personal or financial information from you.
- Check your credit reports, bank and credit card statements periodically, and report any irregularities promptly to the relevant agencies.
- Shred personal and financial documents before putting them in the garbage. Trash bins are a gold mine for identity thieves.
- Never leave your wallet or purse unattended.
- Store account statements, records, and tax filings in a secure place.
- Secure all your devices with strong passwords.
- Do not respond to unsolicited credit card offers.
- If you receive a request from a licensed professional who you are not familiar with, check that the individual is licensed with FCNB. Search our Licence Database.
How to report it
If you suspect you’re a victim of identity theft, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, and your local police or RCMP. You should also notify your financial institution and the credit reporting bureaus Equifax and TransUnion.
FCNB is responsible for the administration, education and enforcement of provincial legislation that regulates securities, insurance, pensions, credit unions and certain consumer services. If your complaint relates to an area outside of FCNB’s regulated areas, we may refer you to the appropriate reporting agency or organization.