How to Recognize & Block Scam Callers on Your Mobile Device in Canada

In today’s digital age, scam calls are an increasingly common nuisance, with fraudsters constantly finding new ways to trick people. Whether it’s robocalls, phishing attempts, or even sophisticated impersonation schemes, Canadians must stay alert to protect themselves from these threats. Knowing how to block these calls and recognize common scams can help prevent identity theft, financial loss, and other headaches.

Here’s how you can block scam callers, recognize warning signs, and use free tools to safeguard your mobile device.

Recognizing Scam Callers

In Canada, scam calls take many forms, but they share a common goal: deceiving you into providing sensitive information or making payments. These are the most common types of scam calls Canadian mobile users face:?

Robocalls - Automated calls that try to sell products or services, or scare you into taking action. Legitimate companies rarely use robocalls, and many are generated by scammers.

Phishing Calls - These scammers impersonate well-known organizations like your bank, Service Canada, or other trusted entities. They’ll ask for personal information such as your Social Insurance Number (SIN), credit card details, or passwords.

CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) Scams - One of the most notorious scams in Canada, the caller impersonates the CRA, claiming you owe back taxes or will face legal consequences unless immediate payment is made.

Tech Support Scams - Scammers pose as tech support representatives from well-known companies, telling you there’s a virus or problem with your computer or device that requires immediate attention.

Telco Techco Scams - Scammers pose as a representative from one of the Canadian companies stating they have a great promotion or a free upgrade, and they ask for personal credit info to verify your account. They are playing the odds game in hopes they find a person who has a phone with the carrier they are "representing". Please note your provider if calling you will not ask for personal credit details.

Prize or Lottery Scams: You receive a call stating you’ve won a contest, prize, or lottery, but you need to pay taxes or fees upfront to claim your winnings.?

How to Recognize Scam Calls

Here are some red flags to help you identify scam calls:

Urgency or Threats: Scammers often use fear tactics, claiming immediate action is needed or there will be legal consequences. Government agencies like the CRA will never threaten arrest or demand immediate payment over the phone.

Request for Personal Information: Legitimate companies and government bodies will never ask for your SIN, banking details, or passwords over the phone.

Too Good to Be True: Calls claiming you’ve won money or prizes you didn’t sign up for are almost always scams. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Spoofed Numbers: Scammers can disguise their phone numbers to make it appear as though the call is coming from a local number, or even from a trusted source like the CRA or a government office.

Blocking Scam Callers on Your Mobile Device

Blocking scam calls is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself. Most smartphones today come with built-in features that allow you to block unwanted calls, and there are also third-party apps designed specifically to prevent scammers from reaching you.

Here are some tips and tools to help block scam callers:

Use Built-in Blocking Features

iPhone Users: Go to your recent calls list, tap the “i” icon next to the number you want to block, and select “Block this Caller.”

Android Users: Open your recent calls, tap and hold the number you want to block, and select “Block/report spam.”

Free Apps to Block Scam Calls

There are several apps available that help detect and block scam calls. Here are some popular options:

Hiya: This app identifies incoming scam calls and blocks them in real time. It can also detect spam text messages.

Truecaller: It identifies caller IDs for unknown numbers and blocks robocalls, scam calls, and telemarketers.

RoboKiller: This blocks unwanted calls and even answers them with a bot that wastes the scammer’s time, reducing the chances of repeat calls.

Reporting Scams in Canada

If you receive a scam call, it’s important to report it. In Canada, you can file a complaint with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC). This helps authorities track and combat scam activity.

By being proactive and staying informed, you can significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to scam calls. Use the tools available on your mobile device, take advantage of free apps, and always trust your instincts when something feels off. Most importantly, never share personal or financial information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller’s identity.

Taking steps to block scam calls, staying aware of common scams in Canada, and reporting suspicious activity can help protect both you and others from falling victim to fraud.

Stay safe, stay vigilant!

Please Note: The views and opinions expressed in his newsletter or solely my own and do not necessarily reflect the perspectives of my clients, colleagues or any organizations I'm affiliated with. This content is created to spark ideas and encourage discussion and I welcome your insights and feedback!