Nothing says summertime like garage sales, but in this new digital era, online marketplaces have become the new way of garage-saling!
When buying from online ads or marketplaces, taking precautions can help protect your money. Here are some tips to ensure your transactions are secure:
Meet the Seller Face-to-Face: Whenever possible, meet the seller in person to verify the item before making any payments. This can help ensure the product is as described and reduces the risk of scams. Be cautious about sending a deposit to hold the item for you, as some fraudsters will use a fake address to trick you into sending money before you see the product.
Keep Security Questions Safe: When setting up security questions, avoid including the answer within the question itself. This adds an extra layer of protection against fraud
Visit Rental Units Before Paying: If you want to lease a rental unit, always visit the property in person before making any payments! That way, you know the property is legitimate and meets your expectations.
Keep Reference Numbers Private: Do not disclose the Interac e-Transfer reference number to anyone, even if they ask. This information should remain confidential to protect your funds.
Your safety is our priority. Make sure to follow these tips for secure transactions during your online marketplace shopping!
We're here to help! If you ever feel uncertain about a suspicious communication or potential fraud, reach out to our Contact Centre, book an appointment with your advisor, or stop by a branch to talk about it. Together, we can help our communities fight fraud!