Stand on guard: Indians in Canada asked to stay vigilant against scammers posing as government officials
By Gautam Viswanathan, Deputy Editor, The Inspired Indian
Persons of Indian origin in Canada have been advised to stay on guard against scammers posting as government officials, and to not inadvertently give away critical or sensitive information such as their bank details, credit card information, Social Insurance Number (SIN), or any other personal data that they consider sensitive.
The advice comes from India’s High Commission in Ottawa, following a spate of calls made to persons of Indian origin in Canada by scammers pretending to be from India’s diplomatic missions in the country, as they attempt to extort money from unsuspecting individuals.
“It has come to notice that some Indian nationals or Indian origin individuals in Canada have been receiving calls, emails etc. from unscrupulous elements about their Canadian visa/immigration job status, job offers, for payment/repayment of application fees, alleging that have committed or are involved in crimes/frauds,” said an announcement from the High Commission of India in Ottawa.
The announcement added that India’s diplomatic representatives in Canada do not deal with matters mentioned above.
India has a high commission in Ottawa, as well as Consulates General in Toronto and Vancouver.
To report such calls, please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), or by calling 1-888-495-8501. Alternatively, do get in touch with your nearest police station. If the caller’s numbers originate from India, please visit www.cybercrime.gov.in.
Immigrants more susceptible to scammers
Studies have shown that immigrants in Canada are more vulnerable to scammers posing as government officials, for the following reasons:
- A lack of familiarity with Canadian systems
- Language barriers
- Cultural deference to authority
- Fear of losing immigration status
- Social isolation and lack of strong support networks
- Financial pressure and aspirations
- Lack of awareness of anti-fraud resources
- Use of ethnic language in scams
No entry into India for PIO card holders after 2025
In a separate announcement, the high commission has asked persons of Indian origin who hold PIO cards to convert them into Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards at the earliest. PIO cards will not be considered valid for entry into India after December 2025.
The conversion from PIO to OCI card is not automatic: cardholders need to obtain their new documentation through BLS offices in Canada. Instructions on how to do so are available on the website of the High Commission of India to Canada.