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The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Serving the Atlantic Provinces is reminding Canadians that cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require vigilance.
With more people relying on digital payment platforms, remote work, and social media, scammers have adapted their tactics to exploit new vulnerabilities.
BBB Atlantic President and CEO Julia Lewis says both consumers and small businesses need to stay alert.
“Cybersecurity has become increasingly important, as scammers target both consumers and small businesses through phishing emails, fake websites, identity theft scams, and more,” Lewis said. “Basic cybersecurity practices are a must in today’s online world.”
To help protect users and businesses, BBB shared five simple steps:
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Use strong, unique passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
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Be cautious of phishing attempts, including messages that create urgency or ask for personal details.
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Enable multi-factor authentication to add a second layer of security.
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Keep software and antivirus programs updated to close security gaps.
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Verify websites before entering payment or personal information—look for “https://” in the address bar.
Lewis adds that these small actions can make a major difference in preventing cybercrime.
“Protecting your information is about being proactive. A few minutes of prevention can save a lot of stress and money later.”
The BBB also encourages residents to report suspicious activity at BBB.org/ScamTracker and explore more resources at BBB.org/all/cybersecurity.
