June 2021

Consumer Edge

Office of Consumer Affairs

June 2021

Credit and debit card protection

Did you know that if someone uses your credit or debit card without your permission, and if you've taken reasonable care to keep your account and PIN safe, you may be reimbursed for the unauthorized transactions?

If you suspect someone has used your credit or debit card without your permission, or if your card is lost or stolen, immediately notify your card issuer. In most cases, you will not be held responsible for transactions you didn't make or approve.

In fact, when you report fraud or an unauthorized transaction on your accounts, credit card issuers must thoroughly investigate the incident. But keep in mind that you may need to report the incident within a specific amount of time. Contact the financial institution that issued your card or check your credit or debit card agreement to find out what steps you must take to qualify for zero liability protection.

Learn more about how your credit card can protect you against financial loss on the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada website.

Moving season! Tips for moving during the COVID-19 pandemic

For many Canadians, July is moving season. Regardless of when you are planning to move, it's best to plan ahead. For a smooth moving day, follow these tips:

  • Check if your province or territory has identified moving companies as an essential service.
  • Research your mover before hiring them: thoroughly read their website as well as reviews online, and choose a reputable mover.
  • Ask questions: If you're hiring movers, make sure to ask what steps the company is taking to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
  • Get a virtual quote: Many moving companies are now offering virtual surveys instead of at-home surveys to give you a price estimate for your move.
  • Disinfect: Thoroughly clean and disinfect your furniture and belongings as you unpack.

For more advice, check out the Office of Consumer Affairs web page on moving.

For military members and their families, we recommend checking out The ABCs of Military Postings before your next move.

New projects being funded!

The Contributions Program for Non-Profit Consumer and Voluntary Organizations provides funding for consumer advocacy groups to take on research projects that address:

  • current and emerging consumer trends and issues, and/or
  • developmental projects to support organizational capacity.

For 2021-2023, we are excited to announce that a total of 21 projects are being funded—17 research projects and 4 development projects—to support the work of 16 consumer advocacy organizations across the country.

Check out the list of funded projects that will help strengthen the role of Canadian consumers in the marketplace.

Report from the Consumer Council of Canada: The On-Demand Consumer

The Consumer Council of Canada (CCC) has published a report and a press release about their ISED-funded research project, The On-Demand Consumer.

The report has several recommendations for governments and policy makers, as well as important information for everyone about the on-demand economy and online shopping.  

The CCC received funding from the Office of Consumer Affairs' Contributions Program for Non-Profit Consumer and Voluntary Organizations to complete this study.