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Have you ever nearly been convinced by an email, text or phone call that you needed to click a link or share private information? The deluge of messages, virtual or otherwise, that Canadians receive can sometimes make it easy to slip in our vigilance against fraud. A new RBC poll finds 98% of respondents have seen more targeted and sophisticated scams.

"With the increase in volume and sophistication of scams, it’s understandable that Canadians are finding it challenging to always have their guard up when it comes to fraud. Criminals are using the latest technology to gather information, build trust, create urgency and prey on people’s needs and fears," Vanja Gorazi, RBC’s vice-president of fraud management, said in a statement.

"This has led to a wave of investment, romance, senior and other scams. It has never been more important to stay alert."

Nearly 9 out of 10 (89%) noted a rise in scam attempts more than ever before, up significantly from 2023.

Fool me once, fool me twice

The majority (86%) of respondents believe it is getting harder to recognize scams and protect themselves; two-thirds are feeling tired of always having to be on the alert; and one-third admit to letting their guard down.

Scams are getting smarter, and according to recent poll results, people are taking notice. At the top of the list? Phishing and spear phishing.

If you’ve ever received a sketchy email or text that seems off, you’re not alone. Phishing refers to those broad, deceptive messages designed to trick you into clicking a link or giving up personal information. Spear phishing takes it a step further. These scams look even more convincing, often appearing to come from a trusted contact, like your bank or a coworker.

But that’s not all that has people worried. A staggering 76% of respondents say they’ve seen more scams specifically targeting seniors. And in a world where artificial intelligence is advancing quickly, deep fake AI scams are on the rise, too — 65% of people have noticed more of these high-tech scams impersonating trusted individuals or organizations, up from 56% last year.

As scams become more sophisticated, staying informed is more important than ever. Whether it’s an email that seems too good to be true or a voice on the phone that doesn’t quite sound right, a little extra caution can go a long way.

What’s the best defence against scammers?

The vast majority of Canadians believe it’s worth it to take steps to protect themselves against fraud. With scams, they recognize the need to question what they see and hear, with 91% of respondents believing the best defence against scams is staying aware and vigilant.

Moreover, 71% feel prevention measures must be extreme to be effective.

Respondents to the poll were asked what if any preventative measures they were already taking to avoid falling prey to the onslaught of scammers. Of those asked:

• 93% never share passwords, PINs, or login details with anyone
• 92% never respond to unsolicited texts, calls or emails
• 91% say "no" when pressured to respond to an urgent request or offer
• 84% always use more than one way to authenticate themselves where possible
• 71% no longer trust any form of communication, even if it seems to come from a trusted source

Survey methodology

RBC commissioned an online survey of 1,500 Canadian adults that are members of the Angus Reid Forum from January 17 to 22, 2025, weighted on age, gender, region and education according to the latest census data.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Farzi Café, a high-end Indian eatery in Square One Shopping Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, first hit headlines earlier this year when it was temporarily shuttered over health violations, documented in public health orders after inspectors found multiple safety infractions. Yet, its reopening proved short-lived.

Last week, the restaurant quietly closed its doors again. This time, diners aren’t concerned about sanitation. They’re accusing the café of an entirely different kind of contamination: financial deception.

Since early June, online critics have raised alarm over inflated bills. A viral TikTok by Harnoor Sahota recounted a baffling $240 charge for a party of three that included unrequested appetizers, inconsistent menu prices and unauthorized gratuities. The video quickly amassed over 600,000 views, attracting hundreds of similar Google, TripAdvisor and Reddit reviews detailing aggressive upselling and ambiguous charges.

More than 20 complaints have since been filed with the Better Business Bureau, earning the café an “F” rating. Despite calling the allegations “baseless” and announcing legal intentions on an Instagram post that has since been removed, the restaurant has also now vanished from Square One and refused to comment further.

Drip pricing: Not just a theme-park trick

Farzi Café’s closure isn’t an isolated case of questionable pricing. This spring, Canada’s Wonderland, Canada’s largest theme and waterpark in Vaughan, faced a lawsuit from the Competition Bureau over so-called “drip pricing.”

The Bureau alleges Wonderland advertised ticket prices starting at $49.99 — but only once undisclosed fees ($0.99–$9.99 per ticket or parking processing) were tacked on did the true cost emerge. That’s a textbook drip‑pricing scheme: Drawing customers in with a low headline price, then revealing mandatory add-ons at purchase. The Bureau’s May 5 filing asks the Competition Tribunal to force Wonderland to stop, pay penalties and issue refunds to affected consumers.

Wonderland counters that all fees are disclosed “from the outset” and that variable fees provide flexibility — a claim disputed by critics and the Bureau alike. The financial stakes are high: Last year, Cineplex paid $39 million in a similar case, and class-action suits are already emerging against Wonderland.

Turn the tables on tricky pricing schemes

Let these cases be a lesson: Any time you see low headline prices, find and read the fine print. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

• Spot drip pricing early. If a “from” price jumps at checkout, question it
• Calculate the full cost. Add all mandatory fees — processing, gratuity, surcharges — before paying
• Track billing surges. Save receipts and compare them to advertised prices. If something’s off, report it to your credit card provider or the Competition Bureau
• Use complaints as ammo. A public profile of reports can lead companies to change pricing or face legal action
• Vote with your wallet. Avoid businesses with opaque billing and support those that include all-in pricing upfront

When the bill doesn’t add up

In the digital age, customers are increasingly vulnerable to hidden charges, from the dinner table to the ticket kiosk. Whether it’s extra appetizers you never asked for or fees you didn’t expect, companies are constantly testing the limits of what customers will tolerate.

Your best defense? Stay vigilant, ask questions and insist on transparency. Because when pricing isn’t clear, whether at a restaurant or a theme park, it’s more than a scam. It’s a breach of trust.

Sources

1. Mississauga.com: Restaurant at Square One ordered to temporarily close during health inspection (April 14, 2025)

2. Better Business Bureau: Farzi Cafe

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

A lot of Canadians are reasonably on edge lately, with US president Donald Trump’s continued talk of annexing Canada and various tit-for-tat tariff threats lobbed back and forth across the border. That tension has been reflected in Canadian businesses, with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)’s Business Barometer crashing to an all-time low in March.

"Small business owners are feeling pessimistic about their business’s perspectives for the next few months or even beyond. It’s hard to make critical decisions for the long, medium or short term when so much can change within a matter of hours," Simon Gaudreault, CFIB’s chief economist and vice-president of research, said in a statement.

"No one knows when the tariff war will end, and businesses are worried the worst is yet to come."

The index dropped 24.8 index points to 25.0, which is a lower mark than at any time during the 2020 pandemic, 2008 financial crisis or even the September 11, 2001 attacks.

How is this tension affecting Canadian small businesses?

To recoup the losses caused by tariffs and the ongoing financial struggles, small businesses plan to raise prices by an average of 3.7%, an increase from 3% in February — the largest month-over-month spike in price increase intentions since the pandemic. Average wage increase plans dropped to 1.9% from 2.2% last month.

Weak small business optimism is also translating into lower hiring plans, with 19% of small firms planning to lay off in the next few months (up from 13% in February), and only 11% looking to hire.

Insufficient demand has been steadily trending upwards since November 2024, reaching a new historical high of 59% of affected small firms in March, eclipsing the pandemic high mark of 53% for this indicator.

Are there regional or sector differences?

Confidence among all sectors also fell, with hospitality (17.0), manufacturing (18.6), transportation (21.0) and agriculture (21.3) at the bottom of the scale. In addition to US tariffs, agriculture businesses are also facing 100% tariffs from China on canola oil, peas and oil cakes as well as 25% tariffs on pork and aquatic products such as lobsters.

This dramatic drop in confidence is being felt across the country, according to CFIB’s survey. All provinces registered a drop in optimism, with the three largest provinces among the most pessimistic: Ontario (23.4), Alberta (24.1) and Quebec (24.9).

"Business confidence is at abysmal levels. If this doesn’t send a strong warning signal to policymakers that businesses urgently need all the help they can get to weather this storm, including a much-improved business environment here in Canada, then I’m not sure what will," said Corinne Pohlmann, CFIB’s executive vice-president of advocacy.

Survey methodology

CFIB’s survey is based on 1,065 responses from a stratified random sample of its members, to a controlled-access web survey from March 5 to 7. Measured on a scale between 0 and 100, an index below 50 means owners expecting their business’s performance to be weaker over the next three or 12 months outnumber those expecting stronger performance.

This article Canadian small businesses’ confidence is at an all-time low amid US trade tensionsoriginally appeared on Money.ca

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

It feels like it’s hard to plan for the future right now. While that’s likely been true for most years, the current moment feels especially challenging, amid recession and tariff concerns and more. In light of that, a new Edward Jones survey reveals Canadian investors are redefining what financial success means to them.

While traditional milestones like homeownership and early retirement remain important, a growing number of investors, particularly Millennials and Gen Xers, are redefining success to include a more holistic view. Nearly half of Canadians (47%) note having the freedom to pursue their passions as the key goal in their pursuit of a financially fulfilled life, followed by worrying less about money (38%) and spending more time with family and friends (35%).

“It’s really encouraging to see the resilience of Canadians,” David Gunn, principal, and head of U.S. and Canada business units at Edward Jones, said in a statement.

“More than ever, Canadians are seeking deep, personal, trusting relationships with their advisors so their financial plan reflects their version of fulfilment – supporting both today’s aspirations and tomorrow’s ambitions. This allows them freedom to pursue meaningful experiences now, whether that’s travel, hobbies or quality time with loved ones.”

Navigating financial uncertainty

There are a number of obstacles to achieving financial security, whatever that may look like for different groups of Canadians. The survey also reveals that two-thirds of Canadian investors view the rising cost of living as their most significant challenge toward achieving financial fulfillment. Other key concerns include insufficient income or savings (31%), unexpected financial setbacks (29%), and health-related issues (23%).

Not surprisingly, these challenges vary by generation: Millennials are relatively more likely to say they are affected by income and savings shortfalls, while health concerns become more prominent with age, particularly among Boomers.

Yet, despite these pressures, many Canadians are taking proactive steps toward financial fulfillment. Investors report a strong willingness to adapt, with 38% open to cutting back on discretionary spending, 31% willing to pay down debt, and 25% interested in improving their financial literacy.

The majority of respondents (56%) are focusing on saving enough for retirement, 34% want to maintain emergency savings, while 20% cite leaving a legacy for loved ones. Gen X and Boomers prioritize retirement readiness and estate planning, while Millennials also focus on home ownership and achieving income milestones.

Going without guidance

Despite these various goals for Canadians, the survey shows a significant portion of Canadian investors are navigating today’s financial landscape without professional guidance. Nearly one in three identify as self-directed investors, a figure that rises to 37% among Millennials. Even more striking, two in five investors either lack a financial plan or are unsure if they have one.

Advisors note that what clients value most isn’t just performance, it’s trust (59%), personalized advice (45%) and strong personal relationships (41%). Advisors’ relationships with clients are evolving to provide behavioural coaching that helps investors stay grounded, avoid impulsive decisions and maintain confidence during uncertain times.

“In an era where financial choices are increasingly complex and emotionally charged, this study reaffirms the notion that the advisor’s role is evolving,” says Tracey McLennan, director, client consultation group, Edward Jones Canada. “Advisors are not just guiding investment strategies, they are helping clients filter out the noise, keeping the focus on what truly matters, and making decisions aligned with their short- and long-term goals in mind.”

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

The Calgary Stampede, running from July 4 to 13, 2025, is not only a cultural celebration, but also a significant economic engine for Alberta. With its blend of world-class entertainment, culinary innovation and community spirit, the event invites residents and visitors to experience the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” — all while fueling downtown restaurants, filling hotel rooms and driving millions into local businesses.

Sheryl Crow headlines Oxford Stomp

On July 11, 2025, Grammy-winning artist Sheryl Crow will headline the 35th annual Oxford Stomp at Prince’s Island Park in Calgary. Joining her are Canadian rockers The Sheepdogs, along with Dear Rouge and Hotel Mira. This milestone event not only offers a stellar lineup but also supports a good cause, with proceeds benefiting the Calgary Food Bank.

The Oxford Stomp is Calgary’s longest-running corporate event and one of the city’s most anticipated outdoor music festivals. Since its inception in 1982, the event has grown significantly, attracting thousands of attendees each year. In past editions, the Oxford Stomp has hosted over 12,000 guests, raising substantial funds for local charities through the Rotary Club of Calgary.

Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere with live performances, gourmet food options, and a variety of beverages. The event also offers VIP experiences, including private areas with stage views, picnic tables, shaded seating and exclusive bar services.

Tickets for the Oxford Stomp are available through the official website and authorized ticket vendors. Given the popularity of the event and the impressive lineup, tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Early purchase is recommended to secure attendance at this iconic Calgary celebration.

A taste of the unexpected

If there’s one thing the Calgary Stampede does as boldly as bronc riding, it’s food. The midway has long been a playground for the culinary curious, where deep-fried meets daring and outrageous becomes irresistible, and 2025 is no exception.

This year’s new lineup is as imaginative as ever. Foodies can sink their teeth into wagyu exquisite poutine, or bite into a Skittle dog. Yes, you read that right. It’s a hot dog. With Skittles. Because, why not?

For those craving seafood with a twist, the spicy salmon nori taco and lobster tornado offer coastal flavour with midway flair, while the Spam-pede bao reimagines a retro favourite in a fluffy Asian bun.

Of course, culinary experimentation is nothing new at the Stampede. In recent years, visitors have been both intrigued and amazed by dishes like the $100 Dog – Jalapeno Cheddar Gut Buster (yes, really), ketchup and mustard ice cream and the Peanut Butter Pickle Dog. The 2023 menu included over 50 new food creations, while 2024’s standouts included the Cowboyaki, a crispy teriyaki bite packed with meat floss and seaweed, and the Spider Bao, a golden-fried soft-shell crab drenched in garlic salted egg sauce.

Love it or leave it, the Stampede midway serves up more than snacks. It’s a feast for the adventurous spirit, and a perfect reminder that Calgary’s greatest show on Earth doesn’t just happen in the rodeo arena.

Rodeo thrills and western traditions

No visit to the Calgary Stampede is complete without experiencing the heart-pounding action of the rodeo. From July 4 to 13, 2025, the world’s largest outdoor rodeo returns to Stampede Park, showcasing top-tier athletes and animal competitors in a series of events that celebrate skill, strength and the rich heritage of the Canadian West.

Each afternoon at 1:30 p.m., cowboys and cowgirls face off in events such as bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, saddle bronc, bareback, tie-down roping and the newly introduced breakaway roping.

These competitions not only highlight the athleticism of the participants but also pay homage to the traditions of ranching and cowboy culture that define the region.

The Stampede Rodeo is renowned for its high stakes, with a total prize pool of $2.17 million up for grabs. Each event builds towards Showdown Sunday, where the top competitors vie for the championship title in front of a packed grandstand.

Beyond the rodeo arena, the Calgary Stampede honours its western roots through various cultural exhibitions and events. The Indigenous Relay Races, introduced in 2017, showcase traditional horsemanship skills, with teams of riders performing intricate maneuvers that have been passed down through generations. The Lady Warrior Race, added in 2023, highlights the strength and agility of female riders in a thrilling bareback race around the track.

Whether you’re a seasoned rodeo fan or a first-time attendee, the Calgary Stampede offers an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of the West. With its blend of competition, tradition and community, the rodeo is a testament to the enduring legacy of Calgary’s cowboy culture.

Economic impact and community engagement

The Calgary Stampede is more than a beloved cultural celebration — it’s an economic powerhouse that fuels Alberta’s prosperity every summer and beyond.

In 2024, the Stampede shattered attendance records with nearly 1.48 million visitors pouring through its gates over 10 days, breaking the previous record set in 2012. That wave of foot traffic translated into an estimated $540 million in economic activity across the province, with Calgary itself benefiting from roughly $282 million of that total. From hotel rooms and restaurants to transit and local attractions, the ripple effect was felt far beyond the Stampede grounds.

But the economic impact doesn’t end when the dust settles in the rodeo arena. Stampede Park is a year-round venue that hosts more than 1,200 events annually, drawing over four million people and generating consistent economic momentum throughout the calendar year.

The Stampede also plays a key role in local employment. Each year, it creates more than 3,500 seasonal jobs, many of them filled by young people entering the workforce for the first time. These roles offer not only paycheques, but valuable experience in customer service, logistics and event operations.

In a province often defined by its boom-and-bust economic cycles, the Stampede stands out as a reliable and robust contributor to Calgary’s economic resilience — one that blends tradition with tangible financial benefits for thousands.

Plan your visit

Tickets for the 2025 Calgary Stampede are available now, with a range of options depending on what you’re looking to experience. The event runs from July 4 to 13, and given last year’s record-setting attendance, if you haven’t booked your trip to the Stampede yet, it’s time to take the bull by the horns and start planning.

Details on ticket prices, daily schedules, and venue maps can be found on the official Calgary Stampede website. Whether you’re a returning visitor or planning your first trip, it’s worth checking out what’s new this year and considering weekday visits or advance bookings to avoid crowds and last-minute price spikes.

Sources

1. Calgary Stampede

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Ben Shakman, a Wildwood, Missouri resident, purchased a trailer on Facebook Marketplace for $3,500 years ago and thought all was fine.

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But when he went to the license office to register the vehicle, the title was deemed incomplete because the sale price was missing. He told FOX 2 the state took 294 days to notify him of the problem.

Despite his best efforts, Shakman wasn’t able to add his name to the title.

Strangely enough, he claims he was eventually asked by the state to take extreme measures against the state itself.

“I went to the courthouse in Clayton, and I did something I’ve never done. I sued the state of Missouri,” he said.

What is a skip title, and how does it impact the seller?

A skip title is when someone purchases a vehicle and doesn’t get the title in their name before selling it to someone else.

This, FOX 2 says, was the issue facing Shakman.

A person who is involved in this sort of “title jumping” bypasses requirements like paying title transfer fees, taxes and registration fees. There ends up being a gap in the vehicle’s history.

According to Kelly Blue Book, a title proves ownership, while a car’s registration allows a vehicle to be legally driven. You usually can’t register a car without a title.

Shakman told reporters that his initial check to register the trailer was cashed. However, he didn’t find out about the deficiency in his paperwork — there was no sales price in the title — until almost a year later.

When he attempted to provide more paperwork, the Department of Revenue told him he needed affidavits. “And then after I talked to the state, it was now the only way you’re getting a title is by suing us, and here’s how to do it,” Shakman said.

Shockingly, state government officials instructed him to sue the state in order to get his title.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Why did Shakman take such drastic measures?

In November, Shakman filed a petition asking for the state of Missouri to give him his title and to pay back some of the fees he paid. On April 1, he appeared in court and was finally awarded his title.

In mid-May he was in court again and was awarded $100, a portion of the fees he had paid for the registration.

“I can’t believe the man-hours that must’ve gone into processing that action I submitted,” he said. “It just doesn’t make sense.”

How to avoid skip titles

To avoid purchasing a vehicle with a skip title, do your research.

Verify the identity of the seller and ask them to provide proof of ownership history. The documentation could include copies of registration documents, the title in their name and any maintenance records.

You’ll also want to verify whether there is still a lien and how this person intends on settling the debt.

If you’re purchasing a car from a dealer, keep all documentation as they’re obligated to ensure a proper title transfer. Usually the dealership will also register the vehicle for you.

Whether you purchase from an individual seller or a dealership, register the vehicle as soon as possible and verify that the title has been transferred in your name.

If you realize you have been title jumped, you may have to take legal action. Consult an attorney about next steps.

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Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

In an increasingly volatile investment landscape, traditional stock and bond portfolios are losing their appeal among high-net-worth investors.

Edward Jones, a North American financial services firm with more than 20,000 advisors and over US$2.2 trillion in assets under care, has joined a growing wave of institutions expanding access to alternative investments — and Canadian investors should take note.

Why this matters to Canadians

While Edward Jones is based in the U.S., it operates extensively in Canada. For Canadian investors with Edward Jones accounts — or those curious about alternative assets — this move reflects a broader shift in wealth management. Rather than focus on traditional assets, like equities and fixed income, even the larger investment firms are now pivoting toward private market opportunities as a way to manage risk, reduce correlation with public markets, and potentially boost returns.

If you’re invested through Canadian ETFs, mutual funds, or managed accounts with exposure to private equity, real estate, or credit, you may already be benefiting from this shift — or you may be missing out.

What’s new at Edward Jones

As of May 5, 2025, Edward Jones launched Edward Jones Generations, its first private client service targeting households with US$10 million or more in investable assets. This elite-tier offering includes:

• Access to alternative investments in private equity, credit, and real estate.
• A platform powered by CAIS, a fintech leader in advisor-accessible alts.
• Integration with the firm’s Advisory Solutions Unified Managed Account (UMA) platform.
• Advanced financial planning services, including tax, estate, trust, and philanthropic strategies.

For now, these offerings are limited to ultra-high-net-worth clients in the U.S., but Edward Jones has stated plans to broaden the product lineup and eligibility over time — which could include Canadian clients.

The rise of alternatives — and the risks

Demand for alternative investments has surged in recent years as institutions like Blackstone and Apollo democratized access for retail and mass-affluent investors. These investments — typically in non-public assets — include:

• Private equity funds
• Non-traded REITs
• Business development companies (BDCs)
• Private credit/debt vehicles

For many investors, the question is: Why now?

Kevin Gannon, CEO of Robert A. Stanger & Co. answered this question in an inverview with Investment News: “There’s a big pull to alternative investments right now because of the volatility of the stock market."

But this move into alternative investments comes with trade-offs. Most assets in the alternative investments bucket are illiquid, less transparent, and suited only for investors who can handle higher risk or longer holding periods.

Canadian investor takeaway

Even if you don’t have $10 million, Edward Jones’ move signals a mainstreaming of private market access. Here’s what you can do:

✅ Review your portfolio for existing alternative exposure in mutual funds or ETFs (e.g. via real estate or infrastructure funds). ✅ Ask your advisor whether private market or non-correlated strategies make sense for your goals. ✅ Understand liquidity constraints — most alternatives are not suitable for emergency funds or short-term needs. ✅ Watch for Canadian access: As platforms like CAIS expand, similar offerings may soon be available to accredited Canadian investors and, eventually, mainstreet investors.

Bottom line

Edward Jones’ new strategy is part of a larger trend that’s reshaping modern portfolio construction. For Canadian investors — especially those with complex financial needs or significant wealth — the rise of alternatives may offer valuable diversification, but only if aligned with your risk tolerance and financial plan.

Sources

1. Investment News: Edward Jones joins the crowd to sell more alternative investments (April 29, 2025)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

A Winnipeg man’s $5 million lottery win has turned into a legal saga after his former partner claimed the winnings and allegedly cut off all contact.

The case, now before Manitoba’s Court of King’s Bench, offers a stark lesson about the financial risks of informal arrangements in personal relationships.

Lawrence Campbell alleges he purchased the Lotto 6/49 ticket on January 19, 2024, and gave it to his then-girlfriend, Krystal McKay, to hold because he had lost his wallet. When they realized the ticket was a winner, Campbell says McKay deposited the entire prize into her own bank account and later ghosted him, according to a statement of claim filed May 14.

McKay claimed the jackpot and was named the sole winner in a January 30 press release issued by the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC) and Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries. The release stated she had received the ticket as a birthday gift.

Campbell denies this and is now suing McKay, WCLC and the provincial lottery authority, alleging breach of trust and negligent advice that allowed McKay to keep the funds.

None of the allegations have been tested in court. The defendants have not yet filed a statement of defence.

Lack of paper trail leaves $5M lottery claim in legal limbo

The legal dispute revolves around Campbell’s claim that McKay agreed to hold the winnings in trust until he obtained government-issued ID and opened a bank account. The lack of any written agreement has complicated his efforts to recover the money.

Campbell’s lawsuit also claims McKay used their relationship breakdown as a way to sever communication and retain sole control over the funds.

A court motion filed last week seeks to freeze McKay’s assets, including property, investments and vehicles, while the case proceeds.

Legal experts: cohabiting couples face risks without documentation

Financial and legal experts frequently warn that cohabiting couples in Canada don’t enjoy the same automatic property rights as married spouses. Provincial laws differ, but in most provinces, unmarried partners must prove direct financial contributions to claim shared ownership of assets after a breakup.

In Ontario, for example, the Family Law Act does not grant equal property division to common-law spouses. Similar limitations apply in Manitoba, although couples who live together for more than three years (or have a child and live together for one year) may fall under provincial common-law rules.

According to CLEO (Community Legal Education Ontario), individuals in common-law relationships should document financial contributions and create written agreements to clarify how property will be divided if the relationship ends. These agreements, often called cohabitation agreements, can help prevent disputes like Campbell’s.

Lottery corporations stress ticket ownership rules

According to WCLC guidelines, lottery prizes are awarded to the individual whose name is on the ticket. If a group plays together, all members should sign a group play form to establish joint ownership.

In this case, McKay was the only person named when the ticket was submitted, and she provided the necessary identification. Campbell alleges he was misled by WCLC staff into allowing McKay to claim the prize on his behalf, a claim that forms part of his lawsuit.

How to protect your finances in love and law

The legal and emotional fallout from this story offers several takeaways for Canadians:

• Don’t rely on verbal agreements. For any significant financial matter — whether it’s lottery winnings, home ownership or large joint purchases — get it in writing.
• Know the law in your province. Common-law property rights vary widely. In many cases, shared assets are not automatically divided without clear proof of contribution.
• Take steps to protect windfalls. Whether it’s lottery winnings or inheritance, speak with a lawyer or financial advisor to establish who owns what and how it should be handled.

A cautionary tale about trust, relationships and money

Campbell’s story may be unique in its drama, but the financial implications are all too common. As Canadians increasingly live together without marrying, this case is a reminder that trust alone may not be enough, especially when millions are at stake.

Sources

1. CLEO: Community Legal Education Ontario

2. WCLC.com: FAQ Group Play

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

In a time when financial insecurity is high and many are looking for ways to safeguard their money or increase their wealth, fraudsters are taking advantage of that vulnerability.

Recently, three Canadians fell victim to a fraudulent scheme involving fake Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs), losing a combined $1.8 million. The scam, which has been gaining traction in recent months, has left the victims financially devastated.

Walter Yamca of Oakville, ON and Samantha Barnes, of Calgary, AB, lost $750,000 and $233,000, respectively, while an anonymous victim from Kitchener, ON, claims to have lost a staggering $900,000.

The individuals have since come forward to CTV News, and detailed how they spoofed into trusting too-good-to-be-true interest rates for GICs, warning others to be more vigilant of predatory actions online.

Falling victim to fraudulent internet search results

Last fall, Yamca took to Google in hopes of finding the "best GIC rates," and clicked on a website that purported to be PC Financial and called its number. He eventually asked his bank to transfer over $750,000, but the website ended up being fake, with Yamca being scammed the total amount he transferred over.

“The banks should confirm the receivers that they’re legitimate,” he told CTV.

Having heard about Yamca’s story on the news, Barnes also reached out to CTV to elaborate on her similar situation. She too had performed a similar internet search and also came across a legitimate-looking PC Financial page, but raised concerns once she realized her $233,000 had been transferred to a BMO account instead of a PC Financial one, with her bank wiring the funds anyway.

"I feel the banks really could have done a whole lot more to prevent this from happening.”

Speaking with the news outlet, Duff Conacher, a director at Democracy Watch, said banks should refund the customer’s money if they don’t catch the scam.

“The Bank Act should be changed to say unless a bank can prove that it went through the full process of due diligence, you’re paying the customer back,” he said.

Scammers are getting better at tricking citizens

These scams are becoming more sophisticated, with fraudsters using increasingly convincing tactics to manipulate victims.

These bad faith actors often use official-looking emails, fake websites and even pose as financial advisors to gain the trust of their targets.

As a result, experts recommend verifying the legitimacy of any offers through official bank channels before committing any funds, while also suggesting that consumers use established, reputable investment options and avoiding deals that seem suspiciously profitable.

This latest wave of scams serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of financial fraud and the importance of safeguarding personal savings.

Protecting Yourself from Fake Bank GIC Scams

To safeguard your investments and personal information, recognize the following red flags:

Unsolicited contact: Be wary of unexpected calls, emails or messages offering investment opportunities, especially if they pressure you to act quickly Too-good-to-be-true returns: High or guaranteed returns with little to no risk are classic signs of fraudulent schemes Suspicious communication: Watch for generic greetings, urgent language or requests for personal information Unusual payment methods: Be cautious if asked to transfer funds to unfamiliar accounts or via unconventional methods

With scammers looking to take advantage of vulnerable consumers, adopting better cyber hygeine online can help thwart future incidents of financial loss, this includes:

Verifying legitimacy: Contact the financial institution directly using official contact information to confirm any investment offers Securing personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive data like Social Insurance Numbers, account details or passwords over unsecured channels Use multi-factor authentication: Enable additional security layers on your financial accounts to prevent unauthorized access Be skeptical of unsolicited offers: Treat unsolicited investment opportunities with caution, especially those promising high returns Monitor financial statements: Regularly review bank statements and credit reports for unauthorized transactions

Be sure to report any suspected fraud

If you suspect you’ve encountered a fraudulent investment opportunity, be sure to contact your financial institution or financial advisor right away to secure your accounts. You should file a complaint with local law enforcement and national fraud reporting agencies. Additionally, it is crucial to to consult consumer protection agencies, such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for guidance and support.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

As technology continues to develop at quickening rates, the tools available to financial fraudsters continue to broaden. But, sometimes, old devices work just as well.

Three ON women — and one unidentified woman —are out nearly $68,000 after falling victim to a classic scam maneuver known as a spoofed phone call. The scammers called each woman and explained they were working with their banks and their funds were in jeopardy due to fraudulent activity on their accounts.

A chilling detail is that each woman’s personal details were used by the scammers to legitimize the ruse, making it even harder to tell truth from fiction.

How the scam unfolded

Petra Shim was one of the four victims who came forward to CTV News after a spoof call resulted in $45,000 being drained out of her account within 10 hours.

“They knew my address, they knew my full name, my date of birth, they knew my email and obviously my phone number,” Shim, a resident of Port Hope, told the news outlet.

To make matters worse, Shim revealed that she would not be reimbursed by her bank because she authorized the transaction.

Kristen Ernest from London, ON, received a fake call from someone allegedly representing the fraud department at her bank. After she was told the money in her account was being used for drug trafficking and money laundering, she complied with the fraudster to “secure” her funds. She lost $13,500.

The third identified woman, Raquel Pineda from Toronto, had a similar interaction, resulting in her losing $9,000.

The fourth woman, who did not identify herself to CTV, claimed she was scammed out of $50,000 and works at a bank herself.

Just how common are spoof calls in Canada?

Fraud is steadily climbing in Canada, with Statistics Canada reporting that fraud of all kinds increased by 12% in 2023 compared to 2022, and has nearly doubled since 2013. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) reported that $648 Million was lost due to fraud in 2024, and there has been $165 Million stolen this year so far as of March 31, 2025.

While it might be a common stereotype that older Canadians are the most targeted by fraud, research from multiple organizations is revealing that may not entirely be the case. An Ipsos Survey on behalf of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada from 2023 found that older Canadians (55+) are, “least likely to report having knowingly been victimized by fraud or scams at some point in their lifetime.” In contrast, nearly two-thirds of Canadians aged 18-34 have admitted they have knowingly been the victim of fraud.

Fraud affects Canadians of nearly all ages — what can be done to avoid these financial traps?

How to avoid becoming a victim

With so many people falling victim to phone scams each year, you may start wondering when you will be the next successful victim of a fraudster. Thankfully, the CAFC has specific advice on how to deal with fake “bank investigators” — Here’s some of their top tips:

• Don’t make assumptions: A fraudster can use your financial institution’s phone number to call you — don’t assume your caller ID is correct.
• Double-check with your bank: If you receive a call from someone alleging they work for your bank, call the number on the back of your debit card from a separate phone. If that’s not possible, tell the person on the other line you’ll call them back instead. Always verify bank representatives’ IDs.
• Know your bank’s behavior: A bank or other financial institution will never ask you to transfer funds to an external account for security reasons. If you are asked to do so, hang up the phone.

What if you’ve been scammed?

Regardless of how vigilant you are, sometimes a scammer knows exactly what to say to get the right information out of you. If you’ve been victim of a phone scam, you need to do these three things immediately:

• Keep documentation: Maintain copies of all phone records, transcripts (if available), text messages, emails, social messages, bank transfer receipts etc. so you have proof of the crime to give to authorities.
• Report it: As soon as you’ve realized what has happened, report the incident to your local police and the CAFC. You can either call the CAFC at 1-888-495-8501 or report it online.
• Tell your bank: Let your bank know immediately, and any other connected financial institutions (e.g. credit card companies) so they can flag your account. Letting either TransUnion or Equifax — Canada’s two credit bureaus —know that you were scammed is also important.

As fraud calls continues to rise Canadians need to stay vigilant

Fraud calls in Canada will continue to become more sophisticated and harder to tell from real interactions as AI technology improves. Now, more than ever, Canadians need to be vigilant against scammers and arm themselves with knowledge to spot bad actors immediately. If we don’t, we’ll pay for it.

Sources

1. CTV News: Ontario women speak out about bank phone call scam that cost them more than $60K, by Pat Foran (Jun 11, 2025)</p

2. Statistics Canada: Police-reported crime statistics in Canada, 2023 (Jul 25, 2024)</p

3. Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: Recent scams and fraud</p

4. Ipsos: Fraud is too Common in Canada: Nearly Half (43%) of Canadians Have Knowingly Been Victimized by Fraud or Scams, in their Lifetime (Feb 17, 2023)</p

5. Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: Bank investigator</p

6. Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: What to do if you’re a victim of fraud</p

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.