Protecting personal information

Use stronger passwords.

Make sure you use a range of passwords across multiple sites. Always verify the strength of your passwords, and never enter them into public or shared computers. Long, complex passwords with a range of upper and lowercase letters and symbols are best.

Become a phishing detective.

Monitor your personal and work email to ensure emails containing mismatched URLS, spelling mistakes, or requests for personal information are flagged and reported. If you’re not sure, always report!

Never share passwords.

Even the strongest and most secure passwords should never be shared. Your passwords are the central source of protection against cybercrime. Always keep them private.

Lock your screen.

When not in use, be sure to secure your cell phone or your computer by turning on sleep mode or activate the screen lock. Failing to do this increases the risk of someone obtaining personal or sensitive information.

Use different passwords for every account.

Consider using a password manager that can generate, record, encrypt and store password information for all the websites you use.

Common red flags to watch out for

Knowing what to look for is an important step in maintaining your cybersecurity.

Unusual or out-of-pattern activities. For example, you have no business with a company, but it is asking for account activation or further details. 

Callers and senders have trouble identifying themselves, or avoid questions when probed.

Marketing materials with spelling or grammatical errors.

Websites that look poorly designed, unprofessional and have broken links.

Unexpected emails or contact.

Aggressive tactics, such as rushing you to not miss an opportunity. Take time to research and see if it is legitimate.

Investment opportunities promising unrealistic returns.

Protecting yourself on social media

It’s important to maintain your online security on social media. Cybersecurity breaches often occur when information is posted on social media in an unsafe way. Below, you’ll find tips on how to improve your cybersafety while on social media

Never share personal information.

Never post addresses, email addresses, phone numbers or your date of birth on social media.

Think twice. Post once.

Make sure you pause to ensure your post does not contain any personal information linked to your passwords or security questions.

Remove old emails and delete old accounts.

These accounts may open the door for a security breach. If you’ve moved on, make sure you take the steps to delete the account entirely.

Expert insights

This Expert insights video features cybersecurity expert Imran Ahmad. Imran joined Fidelity Connects to discuss the latest developments in the cybersecurity space and outline which steps Canadians can take steps to better protect themselves.

Watch the full video now!

Additional resources 

If you suspect your personal information is at risk, please refer to the government resources below for more information. 

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
Canadian Securities Administrators: Investor Alert
Canadian Centre for Cyber Security

Canada's Credit Bureaus:

TransUnion Fraud Victim Assistance Department

1-800-663-9980 (EN)

1-877-713-3393 (FR)

 

Equifax Consumer Fraud Division

1-866-828-5961(EN- option 2)

1-800-465-7166 (FR- option 3)