Identity theft is getting a technological upgrade — and not in a good way.

In a new report released April 9, the Better Business Bureau is warning Canadians that advances in artificial intelligence and growing access to the dark web are fuelling a sharp rise in identity-related scams.

“The study points to an elevation in sophistication by those committing this type of fraud,” said Mary O’Sullivan-Andersen, president and CEO of BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay.

Criminals are now trading stolen personal information — everything from Social Insurance Numbers to bank account details — on the dark web, where it’s auctioned off like any other commodity.

“Criminals offer stolen information such as account numbers, Social Insurance Numbers and other personal details to the highest bidder on the dark web just like any other commodity,” said O’Sullivan-Andersen. “This underscores how vital it is for all of us to protect our personal information.”

Rising numbers, broader impacts

The latest data from TransUnion Canada shows a 15 per cent rise in identity theft cases in 2023. These schemes aren’t limited to a single tactic. Once scammers gather enough personal details — often from multiple sources — the information can be used to commit everything from credit card and personal loan fraud to mortgage scams.

“We know that organized crime gathers multiple pieces of personal information about individuals from a variety of sources in order to commit identity theft,” said O’Sullivan-Andersen. “This stolen information is then used in the commission of a wide array of scams.”

How to protect yourself

To stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated tactics, the BBB is urging the public to be cautious about what they share and to remain vigilant when online.

Some of the red flags include suspicious texts, emails with unusual links, low-quality websites, and unexpected voicemails or social media messages.

The BBB recommends a layered approach: avoid sharing personal information unnecessarily, scrutinize any requests for sensitive data, and keep a close eye on credit reports and financial statements. Strong, regularly changed passwords and multi-factor authentication are key.

Tools like BBB Scam Tracker, Google’s Safe Browsing Tool, and annual credit reports can help people stay informed. In some cases, it may also be worth considering credit freezes or dark web scanners.

If identity theft is suspected, the BBB advises freezing credit cards, changing passwords, contacting police and filing a report, and disputing unauthorized charges. Reports should also be filed with the BBB and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

“Protect your personal information, change your passwords regularly, use multi-factor authentication when possible and learn how to protect yourself from this type of fraud,” said O’Sullivan-Andersen.

For more information and resources, visit: www.bbb.org/all/identity-theft.