Am I at risk for cybercrime?

Worried about cybercrime? The hot spots in Canada have been pinpointed in a survey and yes, if your city is on this list then you have a reason to be concerned.

1. Burlington, ON
2. Port Coquitlam, BC
3. Langley, BC
4. Vancouver, BC
5. Calgary, AB
6. Oakville, ON
7. Markham, ON
8. Toronto, ON
9. Kelowna, BC
10. Kitchener, ON

Size does not always matter when it comes to cybercrime. What seems to be important is whether or not the area has a high level of access to computers with WiFi hotspots and the Internet.

To try and keep yourself protected you should follow these basic risk avoidance and control tips:

  • Check to be sure that your computer is configured securely.
  • Don't ignore the update requests. Keep your security system up-to-date.
  • Choose a strong password for each program. Do not use the same one over and over again.
  • Check your credit card statement and your monthly bank records.
  • Do not give out personal information. There is not going to be a legitimate need for you to do this online.
  • Remember, you can fool some of the people all of the time. If an offer looks too good to be true, then it probably is going to end up disappointing you.


There are some very clever people out there who want to steal your identity. Be careful but if you do have a problem be aware that there is identity theft coverage now in most homeowner or tenant policies. Talk to to your agent or broker to be sure you have this add-on in your policy schedule.

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