What information to provide, in which contexts, and with whom can it be shared online?

Never provide your social insurance number

Never provide your social insurance number unless you are certain of the legal necessity to do so. For example, you must provide your SIN to participate in certain government programs, as well as to your employer and financial institutions.

Did you know you should never leave your social insurance card in your wallet?

Store it in a safe place and only take it out when necessary!

Limit the sharing of your credit card number.

Make sure to conduct transactions only on secure websites and NEVER provide your credit card number via email or on social media (not even in private messages!).

Minimize the amount of personal information you share.

Date of birth, mother’s maiden name, address... These may seem harmless, but they are all pieces of information that can allow a fraudster to steal your identity or money.

Check your credit report regularly.

This step is important to see if fraudulent accounts have been added.

Be vigilant when receiving emails and text messages asking for your personal information.

Phishing techniques are widespread! If in doubt, contact the organization that sent you the message directly and verify with them that the message is legitimate.

Visit the website of the Commission d'accès à l'information to learn more about your rights!