Is Toronto Safe in July 2026?

Callers claim to be from the Canada Revenue Agency, Service Canada, or the Canada Border Services Agency and tell victims they owe back taxes or face immediate arrest. Scammers create urgency by threatening police action or deportation, then demand payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre identifies this as one of the highest-loss scam types targeting visitors and new arrivals in Canada.

How to avoid: The CRA never demands immediate payment by phone, threatens arrest, or asks for gift cards. Hang up immediately — do not engage. If concerned, call the CRA directly at 1-800-959-8281 to verify any genuine outstanding amounts.

Thieves work in pairs on the Toronto Transit Commission subway — one distracts you (asking directions, dropping items) while an accomplice steals your phone or wallet.

How to avoid: Keep your phone in your pocket when not in use on the subway. Use a zip-up bag and stay aware of who is standing close to you in crowded cars.

Street scalpers cluster on Bremner Boulevard and the lower Bay Street corridor outside Scotiabank Arena before major NHL, NBA, and concert events. They sell counterfeit or stolen tickets at inflated prices, often using sophisticated-looking printouts that fail arena scanners at the gate. Some scalpers pose as fellow fans "with an extra ticket," building rapport before negotiating. Victims typically only discover the ticket is invalid at the turnstile, with no recourse.

How to avoid: Buy tickets exclusively through Ticketmaster or the arena's official box office. If purchasing resale, use verified platforms such as StubHub with buyer guarantees. Refuse all street offers regardless of how credible the seller appears, especially on game nights.

Unlicensed taxi drivers at Pearson International charge 2-3x the metered rate, especially targeting new arrivals with luggage who look unfamiliar with the city.

How to avoid: Use the official UP Express train to Union Station or pre-book a licensed taxi or rideshare app. Official taxis have a flat rate from the airport posted on signs.

Fraudulent listings on rental platforms advertise non-existent condos in desirable Toronto neighborhoods. After payment, victims arrive to find no such property exists.

How to avoid: Stick to verified Airbnb Superhost listings with substantial reviews. Never wire transfer money or pay outside the platform. Video-call hosts before booking.