Sadly, there are so many dishonest people out there, it is almost unbelievable. But even here, on this remote small island we are not immune to scams.

There is a lot of good information out there to learn how to protect yourself:

https://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/en/blogs/protecting-yourself-telemarketing-and-retail-scams-over-phone

https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/protect-protegez-eng.htm

A few quick tips
- Don't ever give anyone remote access to your computer. (or in person except if initiated by you)
- Don't give out any personal information over the phone to anyone that calls you even if they say they are from a known business or the call displays shows it.
- Don't send any money to anyone before you have the item in your hands.
- Don't give personal info to someone that wants to send you money for something you are selling and you have not met them/do not know them.
- Don't click on anything in an email - go to the source.

I just received a note from someone that there are people from "Bell Canada" phoning, saying they're helping coordinate the hook up of our new fibre optic service. Call display shows a local number. The rep says they're coordinating the appointments for delivering the new router, free of charge, and just need to ensure compatibility with your computer. The rep then tries to get you to turn on your computer to do something.

Hang up or if you think it is a real offer, take down their information so you can verify it and ask around to see if your neighbours and/or friends know anything about it.
CityWest confirmed they have had customers call to ask them about it and they are not involved.

Talk to your friends and neighbours about anything that sounds suspicious/a bit off/too good to be true.

CRA scams are popular as well, they have a webpage that has a lot of good info about it:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/fraud-scams.html