Don't Get Caught: Avoiding Frauds and Scams
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Fraud is on the rise across Canada, and scammers often target people they believe may have fewer ways to double-check information quickly. For people who are blind, Deafblind, or partially sighted, that can mean extra caution is needed when dealing with phone calls, emails, text messages, or even someone at your door.
The good news is that a few simple habits can prevent most scams before they start.
Common Scams to Watch For
Scammers use many different tricks, but most fall into a few familiar patterns.
Phone scams are still very common. Someone may claim to be from a bank, a government agency, utility company, or a well-known company. They may say there’s a problem with your account or that you owe money and must pay right away.
Email and text scams, often called phishing, try to get you to click a link or share personal information. These messages might appear to come from a delivery service, your bank, or a subscription service.
Tech support scams are another frequent tactic. A caller or pop-up message says your computer has a virus and asks you to install software or give them remote access.
Romance and friendship scams often begin on social media or dating sites. The person builds trust over time and eventually asks for money.
The methods change, but the goal is always the same: to get your personal information or your money.
Why Scammers Sometimes Target People who are Blind or Partially Sighted
Most people who are blind or partially sighted rely on tools like screen readers, voice assistants, and phone calls to manage daily tasks. Scammers know this.
For example, a caller might pressure someone to act quickly, knowing it may take longer to verify information independently. Fraudsters may also assume that a person cannot easily read a suspicious message or see clues that something is wrong.
That doesn’t mean people who are blind are easy targets. It simply means it helps to build a few extra checks into your routine.
Simple Habits That Protect You
Slow down. Scammers want you to act fast. If someone says you must pay or respond immediately, treat that as a warning sign.
Hang up and call back. If a caller claims to be from your bank, a delivery company, or a government office, end the call and contact the organization using the official number you already have.
Never give out sensitive information. Banks and government agencies will not call to ask for passwords, PINs, or full banking details.
Avoid clicking links in unexpected messages. If you receive a text or email saying there’s a problem with an account, open your browser or app directly instead of using the link in the message.
Use trusted help when needed. If something seems suspicious and you’re unsure, ask a trusted friend, family member, or support worker to review it with you.
Technology Can Help
Accessibility tools can also make it easier to spot scams.
Screen readers can read out full email addresses or website links, which sometimes reveal that a message isn’t from the company it claims to be. Password managers help ensure you only sign in to legitimate websites. Many banks also offer voice alerts or app notifications when unusual activity appears on your account.
Taking a few minutes to learn these features can add another layer of protection.
What to Do if You Think You’ve Been Scammed
If you believe you may have shared personal information or sent money to a scammer, act quickly.
Contact your bank or credit card provider right away. They may be able to stop or reverse a transaction. You can also report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, which tracks scams and provides guidance.
Reporting a scam may feel uncomfortable, but it helps protect others.
Stay Alert and Stay Connected
Scammers succeed when people feel rushed or isolated. Talking openly about fraud within your community helps everyone stay informed.
Sharing experiences, warning friends about new scams, and checking in with each other can make a real difference. A quick conversation today could save someone a lot of trouble tomorrow.
AEBC is pleased to share this important resource of a recorded workshop presentation by Constable Berle Zwaan from the Saanich Police Department on avoiding frauds and scams: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kwn2la80wSw