Financial fraud can be stressful and time-consuming experience. It can affect you both financially and emotionally. If you are defrauded, or suspect that you may have been defrauded, take these steps right away:
1. Report the fraud
Contact the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC). We’re here to help. We can review your situation and suggest next steps on what you need to do.
As a regulatory body, the OSC administers and enforces compliance with the provisions of the Securities Act (Ontario) and the Commodity Futures Act (Ontario). This means we can investigate alleged breaches of securities laws and in certain cases, prosecute accused wrongdoers through the Ontario courts.
You should also file a police report. Some financial institutions may request it as part of their anti-fraud investigation procedures.
The police may launch their own investigation or depending on the circumstances, the matter could be forwarded to the Joint Serious Offences Team which is an enforcement partnership between the OSC, the RCMP Financial Crime program and the Ontario Provincial Police Anti-Rackets Branch.
You can also report being a victim of fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
2. Review your financial statements and accounts
Check for any suspicious activities or transactions. This includes credit and debit card purchases, investments being sold, money orders and address changes. If something isn’t right, report it immediately to your financial institution.
3. Review your credit reports
Get a free copy of your credit report (may also be called a credit or consumer disclosure). The two largest credit bureaus in Canada are Equifax Canada and TransUnion Canada. A credit report will tell you if someone has opened an account – such as a bank account or credit card – using your identity. If you notice an account that you did not open, contact the creditor immediately and explain the situation to them. You may consider putting a fraud alert on your credit report – this tells financial institutions that you may have been defrauded and to take addition steps to verify your identity before opening an account.
4. Keep any evidence
If you have been in contact with the person or organization that you suspect defrauded you, keep any records including email exchanges, text conversations and statements. This will help regulators and the police investigate and take action against the fraudsters. Do not put yourself in danger – if you think the evidence may be at the fraudster’s home or place of business, do not try to collect it yourself. Let the regulators or police know so they can pursue it in their investigation.
Take notes of the conversations you’ve had and the organizations you’ve contacted. It may help you recall information.
Resources for investors can help people who may be experiencing distress, whether related to investment losses or other challenges. It features a curated list of websites and tools to help address investor inquiries and connect people to community supports. From mental health resources to crisis helplines, these connections can provide vital assistance during difficult times.
