March 2020

Consumer Edge

Office of Consumer Affairs

March 2020

World Consumer Rights Day is March 15

This World Consumer Rights Day, consumer organizations around the world are joining together to call for global changes to avert environmental breakdown. Find more information on this year's World Consumer Rights Day campaign on the Consumers International website.

Be a green consumer

Your day-to-day purchasing decisions have an impact on the environment. In partnership with Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Office of Consumer Affairs website has recently published information on how you and your household can prevent pollution in the modern marketplace.

March is Fraud Prevention Month

When it comes to fighting fraud, knowledge is power! Throughout the month of March, the Competition Bureau and its partners will share tools to recognize, reject and report fraud. Be sure to follow the Competition Bureau @CompBureau on Twitter to get the latest information.

If you suspect you may be a target of fraud, or if you have already sent information or funds, do not be embarrassed—you're not alone. By reporting fraud, you are giving law enforcement the information they need to stop fraudsters and help prevent others from becoming victims. To report, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

The Fraud Café: Event in Winnipeg

The Consumer Protection Office of Manitoba and its partners are hosting their second Annual Fraud Café in Winnipeg. Learn fraud prevention tips from experts and enjoy a free cup of coffee. The Fraud Café will take place on March 18 at Kildonan Place and March 25 at St. Vital Centre. For more details, visit the Manitoba Security Commission's website.

Internet Code

On January 31, 2020, the Internet Code came into effect. This mandatory code of conduct is for providers of fixed Internet services and includes new safeguards for customers.

Among other things, it ensures customers benefit from:

  • easier-to-understand contracts, documentation and policies
  • clearer information about prices, including for bundles, promotions and time-limited discounts
  • bill shock protection from data usage limits
  • greater flexibility thanks to new rules permitting customers to cancel some new contracts

The Internet Code introduces positive change for customers. Find out more.

Fight spam

Looking for in-depth information on spam? Read Canada's Anti-spam legislation (CASL) – Performance measurement report 2018-2019. Find out what the Government of Canada is doing when it comes to protecting Canadians from spam.