Unwanted calls and texts in Canada, explained
Every guide covers one situation Canadians report to us: the pattern behind it, the signals that are worthless, and the single step that ends it. No fear, no filler.
Someone claiming to be from a bank called about 'suspicious activity'.
Bank impersonation calls in Canada: how the script works
How bank impersonation calls work in Canada, the exact phrases used, why the number on your screen can look genuine, and what to do if you already spoke to them.
One missed call, no voicemail — is it safe to return it?
Missed call from an unknown number: should you call back?
A missed call from an unknown Canadian number, one ring and gone? How to decide whether to call back, what Wangiri callback fraud is, and how to check the number first.
Constant sales calls — how do I make them stop?
How to stop telemarketing calls in Canada
Practical steps to reduce telemarketing calls in Canada: the National Do Not Call List, carrier blocking, handset settings, and which callers are legally allowed to keep ringing.
I got a suspicious text about a parcel, toll or from 'Mum'.
Text message scams in Canada: parcels, tolls and 'Hi Mum'
The SMS scams Canadians report most: missed parcel deliveries, unpaid tolls, bank alerts and 'Hi Mum' messages from a new number — and how to check the link and the sender.
I want to verify a number before I answer or call back.
How to check if a Canadian phone number is safe
A short checklist for deciding whether a Canadian phone number is safe to answer or call back: format, prefix, community reports, and what caller ID cannot tell you.