Identity theft is a growing and serious crime. It occurs when someone uses your personal information without your knowledge or consent. To reduce the risk of identity theft, you should manage your personal information by taking the following steps:

• Never give your PIN or password to anyone.
• At bank machines, always shield the keypad when entering your personal identification number (PIN).
• Choose a PIN or password that does not include your name, telephone number, date of birth, address or social insurance number.
• Beware of mail, phone and Internet promotions or fraudulent websites that ask for personal information.
• Keep your birth certificate, social insurance card and passport in a secure place.
• Shred, destroy or cut up sensitive information before throwing it out.
• Don’t send financial or other confidential information via email.
• If you don’t receive your statements, notify your financial institution and Canada Post.
• Request a copy of your credit report each year and ensure the information is correct.
• Review your financial statements promptly and report any errors or lost or stolen cards to your financial institution immediately.

If you think you are victim of ID theft, report the crime to the police right away and get a copy of the police report so that you have proof of the theft.

You can find more information about ID theft from the following resources:

• Royal Mounted Police Website
• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
• The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada

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