A trusted contact list is one of the simplest fraud prevention tools a family can create. When a scam call, suspicious email, fake CRA message, bank impersonation call, or emergency scam happens, people often panic. A printed list of trusted contacts gives a senior a safe place to turn before sending money or sharing information.
The best time to build this list is before a crisis happens.
Why a trusted contact list matters
Fraudsters often pressure seniors to act quickly. They may say a grandchild is in trouble, a bank account is at risk, taxes are owed, or a computer has been hacked. Many scams work because the victim feels alone and rushed.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre notes that emergency scams prey on fear by claiming someone close to the victim is in trouble and needs money immediately.
A trusted contact list interrupts that pressure. It reminds the senior: pause, verify, and call someone trusted first.
Who should be on the list?
Choose people who are calm, reliable, and easy to reach. The list may include:
- Adult children
- Siblings
- Close friends
- A neighbour
- A lawyer or notary
- Financial advisor
- Bank branch contact
- Care provider
- Local police non-emergency number
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
For fraud reporting, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre accepts reports online and by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
Include official numbers, not random search results
Do not rely on phone numbers provided by a caller, email, or text message. Scammers often provide fake callback numbers.
Write down official phone numbers from bank cards, account statements, government websites, or trusted documents. Keep the list near the phone and in a wallet or purse.
Add a family verification phrase
For grandparent scams and emergency scams, families can agree on a private verification phrase. This should be something fraudsters cannot easily guess from social media.
For example, if someone claims to be a grandchild in trouble, the senior can ask for the family phrase. If the caller cannot answer, the senior should hang up and call a known family number.
Consider formal trusted contact options
For investment accounts, a Trusted Contact Person can also help. CIRO says naming a trusted contact allows an advisor to know who they may contact if concerned about possible financial abuse or fraud.
This is different from giving someone control over the account. It is an extra safeguard.
Review the list twice a year
Phone numbers change. People move. Banks change contact processes. Review the trusted contact list every six months.
A good trusted contact list is simple, visible, and easy to use. In a stressful moment, it can stop a scam before money is lost.
Need a practical fraud prevention talk for your seniors’ residence, community group, or family?
FraudReady Canada provides clear, respectful, and practical presentations on common scams targeting seniors in Canada. Topics include phone scams, CRA scams, grandparent scams, romance scams, fake bank calls, phishing emails, and what families can do if a senior has already sent money.
Book a practical fraud prevention talk for your group today.