Credit Union Central of Canada is working with the Fraud Prevention Forum to raise awareness among consumers and businesses about the dangers of fraud by educating them on how to recognize it, report it and stop it.
More than 100 organizations are members of the Forum, which is chaired by the Competition Bureau. March is Fraud Protection Month and members have events planned to raise awareness of actions that people can take to prevent fraud.
Competition Bureau experts say that when there is a downturn in the economy, there is often an increase in fraudulent activity. It is warning people to be alert to deceptive notices about winning a lottery prize and false business directory listings.

Interac Association is reminding people to protect their PIN and keep their money safe.

Here are key safety tips for debit card holders:

1. Use your hand or body to shield your PIN during every transaction
conducted at an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or at the checkout;

2. Keep your debit card in sight when conducting transactions at the
checkout;

3. Check your banking statements regularly and contact your financial
institution immediately if you detect any unusual activity, for
example purchases you did not make or missing charges;

4. Notify your financial institution immediately, if your debit card is
lost, stolen or retained by an ATM;

5. Memorize your PIN - only you should know it. If you suspect that
someone knows your PIN, even a friend or family member, change it
immediately;

6. Select a unique PIN. Never use obvious information, such as your
telephone number, date of birth, address or Social Insurance Number.
These numbers are often stored in the same place as your debit card
enabling criminals to easily guess your PIN.

For more information visit http://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/site/cb-bc.nsf/eng/h_00122.html

Courtesy of Credit Union Central of Canada.