(NC) Scams are more frequent than ever. If scammers gain access to your personal information or your log-in credentials, they can steal your money, open new accounts or change your credit card information. This could damage your credit score and make it difficult to get loans, buy a car or rent an apartment. Scammers can also fraudulently apply for benefit and credit payments through the Canada Revenue Agency, and apply for loans or credit cards in your name.

Follow these tips to help you keep your money where it belongs:

1. When you aren’t sure who’s sending you a message, double-check.
   1. Get a callback number from the caller to make sure they’re who they say they are.
   2. Check an organization’s official webpage for contact information (never use the links or phone numbers contained in a message).

   3. Take a minute to ask yourself why you are being contacted. It’s okay to ask questions and say no.

2. Remember, businesses and government agencies rarely ask for personal or financial information through email or text.

3. Don’t reuse logins and passwords across accounts. Re-used passwords can increase the risk of scammers stealing credentials and gaining access to multiple services.

If you think you are being scammed, you may feel embarrassed. But it’s important that you get help immediately by calling your local police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Criminals count on people feeling too ashamed to report the crime, but taking swift action can prevent further harm and protect others.

Learn more about the latest scams at canada.ca/be-scam-smart.