Financial Literacy Month 2026: Let’s talk investment fraud
November is Financial Literacy Month (FLM), and this year's "Talk Money" campaign encourages Canadians to have open conversations about money and the financial decisions that affect their everyday lives. As part of #FLM2026, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) is raising awareness about investment fraud and encouraging Canadians to discuss financial opportunities, recognize warning signs and share information to help protect themselves and others.
Investment fraud continues to account for the highest reported financial losses in Canada, with more than $1.6 billion in losses reported to the CAFC since 2021. In 2025 alone, Canadians reported $351 million in investment fraud losses. Cryptocurrency-related investment fraud accounts for the majority of these losses and remains a significant concern. Fraudsters use social media, online advertisements, fake trading platforms and personal relationships to promote fraudulent investment opportunities. Talking openly about investments and sharing experiences with friends, family members and colleagues can help others recognize fraud before losing money. These conversations can also reduce the stigma associated with fraud and encourage victims to come forward.
Warning signs
Be cautious of investment opportunities that involve:
- promises of guaranteed, high or risk-free returns
- unsolicited investment offers received through social media, online advertisements, text messages or dating platforms
- individuals who quickly build trust or develop personal relationships before introducing investment opportunities
- pressure to invest immediately or claims that an opportunity is available for a limited time
- requests to open cryptocurrency accounts, purchase cryptocurrency or transfer funds to unfamiliar digital wallets
- investment websites or trading platforms displaying significant profits but preventing you from withdrawing your money
- requests to pay additional fees, taxes or deposits before accessing or withdrawing your investment funds
- individuals impersonating financial advisors, celebrities or other trusted figures to promote investment opportunities
How to protect yourself
- Be cautious of investment opportunities that promise high returns with little or no risk. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
- Never invest money based on pressure or urgency. Take time to research the opportunity before making a financial decision
- Verify that the individual or company offering an investment is registered with the appropriate securities regulator. Visit the Canadian Securities Administrators' website to check registration
- Research the investment company, trading platform and individuals involved. Be cautious of fake websites, online reviews and testimonials
- Be wary of individuals you meet through dating apps or social media who encourage you to invest in cryptocurrency
- Never provide remote access to your computer or mobile device to someone offering investment advice or assistance
- Do not send cryptocurrency to digital wallets or accounts controlled by individuals you do not know or trust
- Speak with a trusted financial professional before making investment decisions, particularly when considering unfamiliar opportunities
- Talk openly about investment fraud with friends and family. Sharing information about fraud attempts and warning signs can help protect others from becoming victims
- Stay informed about current fraud trends and prevention tips by visiting Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and share this information with others
Report fraud
If you or someone you know has been a victim of investment fraud, report it to your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC). Even if no money was lost, fraud attempts should still be reported. Reports help the CAFC identify emerging fraud trends, support law enforcement investigations and develop prevention messaging to warn Canadians. By reporting fraud, sharing experiences and having open conversations, we can help reduce the stigma associated with fraud and prevent others from becoming victims.
Report fraud and cybercrime online at Report Cybercrime and Fraud or contact the CAFC at 1-888-495-8501.
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