Securing your online accounts – protect your one-time passcodes
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) is warning the public about ongoing frauds involving the compromise of online accounts through the misuse of one-time passcodes (OTPs).
Fraudsters are finding new ways to access online accounts, including on social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat and WhatsApp, as well as email, banking platforms, and online telephone accounts. In many cases, perpetrators will initiate a login attempt using your phone number or email address. This triggers a legitimate one-time passcode to be sent to you. The perpetrator will then contact you often impersonating a trusted organization, service provider, or even someone you know and request that you share the code. Once the OTP is shared, fraudsters can take control of your account, lock you out, and use your identity to target your contacts or commit further fraud.
Warning signs
- You receive a one-time passcode you did not request
- Someone asks you to share a verification code sent to your phone or email
- Messages claiming a code was sent “by mistake” and asking you to forward it
- Urgent requests from contacts that seem unusual or out of character
- Being locked out of your account unexpectedly
How to protect yourself
- Never share one-time passcodes (OTPs) with anyone – not even friends, family, or service providers
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) and use strong, unique passwords for each account
- Verify requests independently and contact the person or organization directly using trusted contact information
- Review account security settings regularly, including linked devices and login activity
- Be cautious of unsolicited messages, even if they appear to come from someone you know
- For more tips on how to protect yourself, visit the CAFC’s website
Anyone who suspects they have been the target of cybercrime or fraud should report it to their local police. Also visit the Report Cybercrime and Fraud website to report online or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
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