{"id":97292,"date":"2026-03-27T15:09:28","date_gmt":"2026-03-27T19:09:28","guid":{"rendered":""},"modified":"2026-03-27T15:09:30","modified_gmt":"2026-03-27T19:09:30","slug":"digital-safety-and-scams-how-to-protect-yourself-online","status":"publish","type":"rbc_my_money_matter","link":"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/money-academy\/cyber-security\/understanding-cyber-security\/digital-safety-and-scams-how-to-protect-yourself-online\/","title":{"rendered":"Digital Safety and Scams: How to Protect Yourself Online"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-block drop-shadow pos-rel top-line-blue block-wpr\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-block-inner-block block-inner\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tldr\">TLDR<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Scammers use urgency and emotion to pressure victims into sharing personal information or sending money.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Strong digital habits \u2013 including unique passwords and multi-factor authentication \u2013 significantly reduce your risk.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Many scams now appear legitimate, using AI, impersonation tactics and fake websites to gain trust.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Acting quickly and reporting fraud can help limit financial loss and protect others from similar attacks.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From shopping online to banking to keeping in touch, our lives are more connected than ever. That convenience brings speed and flexibility \u2013 but it also creates opportunities for scammers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Online fraud is no longer limited to suspicious emails from unknown senders. Today\u2019s scams are sophisticated, targeted and often powered by artificial intelligence. They can appear as text messages from your bank, phone calls that sound like a loved one, fake shopping websites or social media messages that look completely legitimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is you don\u2019t need to be a tech expert to protect yourself. With a few consistent habits and a clear understanding of how scams work, you can significantly reduce your risk of fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-staying-one-step-ahead\">Staying one step ahead<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Scammers rely on urgency, emotion and distraction to override people\u2019s good judgement. They want you to act quickly, before you have time to pause and think. Whether the message claims your account has been frozen, a package is delayed or a family member needs emergency funds, the goal is to trigger a quick, impulsive reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Staying safe online therefore requires a simple mindset shift: treat unexpected requests for money, passwords or personal information with caution, even if they appear to come from someone you trust. A few extra seconds can prevent financial and emotional stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cyber-security-basics-your-personal-protection-checklist\">Cyber security basics: Your personal protection checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Strong cyber habits are your first line of defence. While no system is perfect, these basic practices can make it much harder for scammers to succeed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Keep your devices updated. <\/strong>Software updates fix known security vulnerabilities. Delaying them leaves your devices exposed to risks that scammers actively exploit.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Create strong, unique passwords. <\/strong>Using the same password across multiple accounts makes you vulnerable. If one account is compromised, others can quickly follow. Unique passwords \u2013 or long passphrases \u2013 limit the damage.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA). <\/strong>MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second step, such as a code sent to your phone. So even if your password is compromised, MFA can prevent unauthorized access.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Back up important files. <\/strong>Regular backups, stored securely in the cloud or offline, make it easier to recover your information if your device is lost, damaged or locked by ransomware.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Be careful what you share online. <\/strong>Scammers gather personal details from social media to guess passwords or create convincing messages. Limiting what you post and adjusting your privacy settings can reduce that exposure.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions. <\/strong>Public networks can be unsecure, making it easier for scammers to intercept your data. If you need to access financial accounts, be sure to use a secure connection or mobile data instead.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-spotting-common-scams\">Spotting common scams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Scams are becoming more sophisticated and more personalized. Understanding how they work can make them easier to recognize. Here are some of the most widespread scams circulating today:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Social engineering scams: <\/strong>These scams try to exploit your natural instincts to help others or respond to urgency. Scammers pose as friends, family members or support agents and pressure victims into sharing confidential information or sending money.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Email scams (phishing): <\/strong>Phishing emails impersonate trusted brands, government agencies or financial institutions. They often contain urgent warnings designed to push you into clicking malicious links or entering login details.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Phone scams (vishing and smishing): <\/strong>Phone calls and text messages may claim your bank account is at risk or that you owe money, pressuring you to share personal or financial details. These scams rely on urgency and intimidation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Fake websites: <\/strong>Scammers create realistic shopping sites that collect payment information without delivering products. Warning signs include poor design, missing contact information and unusually low prices.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Romance scams: <\/strong>These scams often begin on dating platforms or social media. Over time, the scammer builds trust before requesting money \u2013 often citing an emergency, the need to cover travel expenses or an investment opportunity. Requests to move conversations off the platform or repeated excuses to avoid meeting in-person are common red flags.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Bank impersonation scams: <\/strong>Via a call, text or email, scammers pose as bank representatives and request passwords, PINs or MFA codes to \u201csecure\u201d or \u201cverify\u201d your account. No legitimate bank will ask for this information through unsolicited calls, texts or emails.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Investment scams:<\/strong> Scammers target individuals through both solicited and unsolicited means, trying to lure them into investment opportunities \u2013 often tied to cryptocurrencies \u2013 with a promise of high returns and low risk. If an investment opportunity sounds too-good-to-be-true, it is likely a scam.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-to-do-if-you-ve-experienced-fraud\">What to do if you\u2019ve experienced fraud<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even the most cautious and savvy individuals can become victims. If you suspect fraud, acting quickly can limit damage. Reporting what happened not only helps protect you, but is also helps prevent others from being targeted. Here is what to do if you \u2013 or someone you know \u2013 needs to report a scam:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Notify your bank.<\/strong> Your bank can help protect your account and prevent further loss. Contacting them right away means any affected cards or accounts can be locked, monitored and replaced quickly.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Notify credit reporting agencies.<\/strong> They can place a fraud alert on your file, which makes it harder for someone to open unauthorized accounts in your name.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Secure your devices and accounts. <\/strong>Scan your devices for malware and change passwords on compromised accounts. This is a great opportunity to create stronger passwords. Be sure to lock your credit card and then call the bank to cancel it.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Monitor your statements.<\/strong> Make it a habit to regularly scan your bank card, credit card and other account statements to ensure all transactions are legitimate.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Our complete <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbc.com\/cyber-security\/_assets-custom\/pdf\/Digital_Safety_and_Scams_Booklet_Personal_EN.pdf\" data-dig-id=\"LP-97292-1c14c8b3\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Digital Safety and Scams\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Digital Safety and Scams<\/a> booklet includes a detailed directory of reporting contacts in Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom, along with key credit bureau and banking information. Having these contacts accessible before you need them can make a stressful situation easier to manage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Protecting yourself online requires ongoing awareness \u2013 not technical expertise. With a few smart habits and a healthy dose of caution, you can protect yourself from common scams and digital threats. Share what you have learned today with friends and family \u2013 because the more informed we all are, the harder it becomes for scammers to succeed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block inner-section-ocean section-inner  has-e-4-eeff-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">For a personal protection checklist, detailed scam breakdowns and a complete reporting guide, download the <a data-icon-class=\"standalone-pdf\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rbc.com\/cyber-security\/_assets-custom\/pdf\/Digital_Safety_and_Scams_Booklet_Personal_EN.pdf\" data-dig-id=\"LP-97292-918ad27d\" data-dig-label=\"Digital Safety and Scams Booklet\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" class=\"rbc-link-format rbc-link-format standalone-pdf\"><strong>Digital Safety and Scams Booklet<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-default-collapsible\"><p><button class=\"collapse-toggle collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse834a1009\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse834a1009\" data-dig-id=\"LP-57738-834a1009\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"accordion closed\" action-closed=\"accordion closed\" action-opened=\"accordion open\" data-dig-label=\"Things our lawyers want you to know\"><span>Things our lawyers want you to know<\/span><span>Things our lawyers want you to know<\/span><\/button><\/p><div class=\"collapse-content collapse\" id=\"collapse834a1009\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-collapsible-inner-block collapse-inner\">\n<p>This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Our lives are more connected than ever \u2013 but online conveniences also come with risks. Discover practical steps to spot scams, protect your accounts and stay one step ahead of fraud. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":90,"featured_media":97295,"parent":57322,"menu_order":0,"template":"wp-custom-template-mmm-sticky-nav","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","footnotes":""},"tags":[524,135],"rbc_content_type":[31],"rbc_audience":[261,231,59,39,93,49,61],"rbc_lob_group":[133],"rbc_difficulty_level":[33],"rbc_mmm_category":[321,376,304,375],"class_list":["post-97292","rbc_my_money_matter","type-rbc_my_money_matter","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-cyber-security","tag-cyber-tips","rbc_content_type-article","rbc_audience-black","rbc_audience-indigenous","rbc_audience-newcomer","rbc_audience-parents","rbc_audience-seniors","rbc_audience-students","rbc_audience-youth","rbc_lob_group-cyber-security","rbc_difficulty_level-beginner","rbc_mmm_category-cyber-security","rbc_mmm_category-cyber-security-for-business","rbc_mmm_category-money-academy","rbc_mmm_category-understanding-cyber-safety"],"acf":{"contently_publication_id":"","custom_author":"Royal Bank of Canada","rbc_video_header":"","rbc_media_duration":"","rbc_toc_for_mmm_tag":"h2","rbc_toc_for_mmm_limit":6,"rbc_toc_for_mmm":[{"title":"Staying one step ahead","url":"#h-staying-one-step-ahead"},{"title":"Cyber security basics: Your personal protection checklist","url":"#h-cyber-security-basics-your-personal-protection-checklist"},{"title":"Spotting common scams","url":"#h-spotting-common-scams"},{"title":"What to do if you\u2019ve experienced fraud","url":"#h-what-to-do-if-youve-experienced-fraud"}],"rbc_toc_for_mmm_action":"Generate Table Of Contents"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.7 (Yoast SEO v26.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover practical steps to spot scams, protect your accounts and stay one step ahead of fraud.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link 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