AMVIC is once again joining the Competition Bureau, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Fraud Prevention Month campaign — #FPM2026 — educating consumers and industry on how to recognize, reject and report fraud. Fraud can take many forms, and learning to recognize and understand fraud when buying a vehicle will help consumers protect themselves.
Fraudsters often use technology to conceal their identity and activities. For example, curbers (unlicensed vehicle sellers) may advertise several vehicles under different names, but use the same phone number in each online listing.
Accurate documentation protects you and helps ensure the right information is recorded, whether on a bill of sale or a financing application. Double check all documents before signing to make sure everything is correct.
AMVIC has free, easy to use consumer guides to help consumers avoid fraud and take steps to protect themselves. Being an educated consumer before, during and after a vehicle transaction puts control directly into your hands. AMVIC has developed helpful consumer guides regarding:
- Budgeting for a vehicle
- Buying a new vehicle
- Buying a used vehicle
- Servicing or repairing a vehicle
- Shopping for a vehicle online
- Spotting a curber online
From curbers to a vehicle with undisclosed damage, from forged signatures to fake credit applications, paying close attention will help protect you from fraudsters. Visit amvic.org to find more ways on how you can protect yourself and report fraud.
For information on this year’s federal Fraud Prevention Month theme, “Fraud: The Hidden Crime,” visit the Competition Bureau’s website.