What is identity theft?

Criminals collect personal data about their targets and subsequently drain their bank accounts, or fraudulently apply for loans or credit cards using their identities.

How to prevent identity theft?

To safeguard against identity theft, ensure the security of your personal data. Refrain from disclosing sensitive information, particularly over the phone, unless it's essential. 

1. Credit cards

• Minimize the number of credit and charge cards you carry to only those that you regularly use. Cancel any cards that you no longer need or use. 
• Opt to pick up new or replacement cards from your bank instead of opting for home delivery. This way, you can ensure the security of your cards.
• Review your financial statements regularly, including credit card statements and bank accounts, to detect any unauthorized transactions promptly. If you notice any suspicious activity, immediately notify your bank or credit card company.
• Check your credit history at least once a year to ensure its accuracy. Monitoring your credit report can help you identify any unauthorized credit applications or other suspicious activity that may indicate identity theft.
• These precautions can help protect you from credit card fraud and unauthorized use of your financial information.

2. Social Insurance cards

• It's recommended not to carry your Social Insurance card unless absolutely necessary. Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is primarily used for tax purposes and is legally required by your employer for payroll and tax reporting. 

3. ATM / Debit cards

• Be extra cautious when handing over your ATM or debit card at places like restaurants or gas stations. Always ensure that the card you receive back is indeed yours.
• When entering your PIN at a terminal, shield the keypad to prevent anyone from seeing your number.
• Memorize your PIN and never write it down or share it with anyone. Your PIN should be kept confidential and difficult for others to guess, reducing the risk of unauthorized access to your account.

4. Mail

• Deposit your mail in a letter box that ensures same-day delivery. Avoid leaving your mail in a box overnight or over weekends if possible. If your mail will sit in a box until the next day, consider using a more secure mailbox or taking your mail directly to a postal outlet for quicker processing.
• Invest in a locking mailbox to secure your incoming mail and collect it daily. 
• Opt for receiving your bank and credit card statements online instead of by mail. 
• If you change your address, submit a change of address card to Canada Post and notify any agencies or businesses that send you important mail or billing information. 

5. Documents

• Purchase a quality shredder to safely dispose of old financial statements, bills, bank statements, and any documents containing sensitive personal information. 
• Shred pre-approved credit card applications: If you receive pre-approved credit card offers or other sensitive documents that you don't intend to use, shred them completely before disposal. Ensure that all parts of the document containing your personal information are rendered unreadable to prevent identity theft.

6. Identification

• Create copies of the front and back of your important identification documents, such as your driver's license, passport, or other IDs. Keep these copies in a safe place, separate from the originals. This will help you have a record of your identification details in case your documents are lost or stolen.

• If you lose any identification document or suspect it has been stolen, immediately notify the issuing authority. For example, contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if your driver's license is lost or stolen, or contact the nearest consulate or embassy if your passport is lost or stolen while traveling abroad.

• Report the loss or theft of your ID to the police and file a formal report. Obtain a police file number or report number, as this may be required by institutions or authorities when addressing potential identity theft issues.

What is Fraud?

Fraud means providing information that a person knows is false or misleading in order to receive assistance that the person is not eligible to receive (Government of BC). 

For more information, you can also refer to Scams and Fraud.

Common Types of Fraud

There are many types of fraud, with new ones invented regularly. Remaining cautious and aware is the best defense. Always consult someone you trust (family, friends, authorities, community organization, etc.) and do not make any hasty decisions.

To understand more about common types of fraud, please visit VPD Fraud Prevention.

What should I do if I encounter fraud, scam or identity theft?

• If unauthorized transactions have been made using your credit card, bank card, or cheques, and you are unsure of the suspect, and the amount lost is under $10,000, you can contact your bank and submit your report to Vancouver Police Department through online reporting. If you do not live in Vancouver, please report to your local police agency

• If it involves losses more than $10,000, please contact your local police agency non-emergency contact

• Contact credit bureaus:some text
  • Equifax at 1-800-465-7166
  • TransUnion Canada at 1-877-663-9980

For more information, please refer to VPD Fraud or Lost/Stolen Identification.