How Scammers Are Exploiting Immigrants Moving to Ontario
Immigrants arriving in Ontario are increasingly falling victim to scams that rob them of their life savings, prompting cybersecurity experts and provincial authorities to take urgent action
Last year, the Ontario government unveiled plans to combat fraudsters targeting newcomers through schemes tied to the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP). Ontario Immigration Minister David Piccini highlighted the vulnerability of immigrants navigating a complex federal system, stating, “While many immigration representatives are diligent and honest, bad actors are exploiting vulnerable newcomers, jeopardizing their immigration status and scamming them out of tens of thousands of dollars.”
To address this, Piccini announced the drafting of new policies to introduce stricter standards and harsher penalties for those exploiting Canada’s immigration system.
Online scams have become a preferred tool for fraudsters preying on immigrants’ eagerness to secure residency or employment in Canada. According to Fortinet, a global cybersecurity platform, online immigration fraud employs various methods, including:
- Email phishing: Scammers pose as credible organizations like the Canadian government, using fake email addresses (e.g., canadaimmigration@gov-ca.com) to solicit sensitive information.
- Fraudulent websites: Fake websites mimic government platforms, often hosting phishing email addresses.
- Fraudulent phone calls: Callers use fake IDs and scripted language to sound official and intimidate victims.
- Fake job offers: Fraudsters distribute counterfeit job offers from Canadian employers or educational institutions, complete with realistic logos and letterheads.
Fortinet’s chief security strategist Derek Mank revealed that scammers increasingly rely on AI to refine their techniques. “Phishing emails now feature flawless grammar and mimic the tone of government correspondence, making them harder to detect,” Mank said.
In 2022 alone, fraud resulted in $530 million stolen across Canada, with scammers identifying vulnerabilities 43% faster than in previous years.
Scammers often make unrealistic guarantees, such as promising visas or job placements in exchange for hefty fees. Other red flags include:
- Poor grammar and punctuation in communications.
- High-pressure tactics, such as imposing fake deadlines for payments or paperwork.
- Requests for personal financial details.
“These scams prey on the trust and unfamiliarity of newcomers with Canadian systems,” Mank emphasized.
While policymakers work on stronger protections, cybersecurity experts urge immigrants to adopt robust online safety practices, including verifying official government websites and avoiding unsolicited offers.
The Ontario government’s proposed policy changes aim to close the gaps in immigration fraud enforcement and create safer pathways for immigrants.
Minister Piccini reaffirmed the province’s commitment: “If fraudsters exploit the Canadian immigration system, they will face consequences. We are determined to protect newcomers and ensure they have the support they need.”
At the time of publication, both provincial and federal governments are yet to finalize the new policies addressing these threats.
As immigration fraud continues to evolve, authorities stress vigilance and awareness as the first line of defense for those seeking a new life in Ontario.