Tariff Resources for Businesses

Now more than ever, it’s important to support local.

VantageOne Credit Union is 100% member-owned, 100% Canadian, and fully committed to serving our members and communities in British Columbia.

In uncertain times, we draw strength from our shared resilience. We’ve faced challenges before, and we’ll face them again, together.

Our credit union stands strong, our communities and country are resilient and together we will get through this.

Tariff Resources for Businesses

  • The Government of Canada is providing resources and solutions to help you manage the potential effects of the evolving Canada-United States relationship. Learn more
  • BDC Resources – Supporting your business through trade uncertainty. Learn more
  • BDC Webinar – Running your business in 2025: Building resilience in a changing world. Learn more
  • Work-Sharing Program – special measures for the Work-Sharing Program in response to the threat or potential realization of U.S. tariffs are in effect from March 7, 2025 until March 6, 2026. Learn more
  • Central 1 Economic Update – Back into the fire: U.S. moves forward on tariffs Learn more
  • Vernon Chamber Business Resources – Learn more
  • Canada’s response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods – Learn more

VantageOne Credit Union’s commercial team is prepared to talk to you about your business financial needs as you navigate potential impacts to your business. Contact us 

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March is Fraud Awareness & Prevention Month

Stay Safe, Stay Informed!

Every March, Fraud Awareness Month shines a spotlight on one of the most pressing issues affecting Canadians—fraud. From phishing scams to identity theft, the landscape of fraud is constantly evolving. These scams can range from simple tricks to highly sophisticated schemes, and unfortunately, the fraudsters behind them are often quick to exploit new technologies and trends. In Canada, fraud affects millions, and the methods used to deceive individuals and businesses alike are becoming more sophisticated by the day.

During Fraud Awareness Month, we are reminded of the importance of staying informed and taking steps to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from fraud.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

  1. Phishing Scams Scammers send fraudulent emails or messages pretending to be from legitimate organizations, such as banks or government services. The goal is to trick you into clicking on a link that leads to a fake website where they can steal your personal or financial information.

  2. Impersonation Scams Fraudsters may impersonate government officials or other trusted individuals. For example, a scammer might call you claiming to be from the CRA, threatening you with legal action unless you pay a fine immediately. They often pressure you into acting quickly to avoid a perceived consequence.

  3. Online Shopping Scams Fraudsters create fake online stores or social media ads offering products at deeply discounted prices. These scams lure victims into paying for goods that never arrive, leaving them without a product and without their money.

  4. Investment Scams Fraudsters may offer opportunities for “too-good-to-be-true” investments, claiming you can make quick profits with little to no risk. These scams often use high-pressure tactics to convince victims to invest money in bogus schemes.

  5. Tech Support Scams Scammers may contact you claiming your computer has a virus or security issue. They offer to fix the problem for a fee, but once they gain remote access to your device, they steal personal information or install malicious software.

How to Protect Yourself

  1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Communication If you receive an unexpected email, phone call, or text message asking for personal information or payment, always verify the source. Government agencies like the CRA or Service Canada will never ask for personal or financial details via email or text message.

  2. Look for Red Flags Scammers often create a sense of urgency in their messages to make you act quickly. Be cautious of threats or promises that pressure you into making decisions on the spot, especially if the offer seems too good to be true.

  3. Check Website URLs Before entering any personal information online, double-check the website URL. Look for “https://” (not just “http://”) at the start of the web address and ensure the domain name is correct. Scammers often use websites that closely resemble official sites but contain small spelling errors.

  4. Use Multi-Factor Authentication Protect your online accounts with multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone.

  5. Educate Yourself and Others Fraudsters are always looking for new ways to deceive. Stay informed about the latest scams and share this information with family and friends to help protect them as well. Fraud Awareness Month is a great time to learn about the latest threats and how to recognize them.

Fraud is an ever-present threat in today’s digital age, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can protect yourself and others. This Fraud Awareness Month, take the time to review the different types of scams that exist and educate yourself about how to spot and avoid them. Remember, the best defence against fraud is awareness—stay vigilant and stay safe!

More Tips & Resources

Read about some things you can do today to strengthen your cybersecurity:
Learn more

Further enhance the security of your account with VantageOne Mobile Alerts! Alerts are an easy way to keep track of your money and protect your accounts.
Learn more

We have compiled a helpful listing of tips and and anti-fraud resources for our members here:
Learn more

Local, online and more – read about scam alerts in our area!
Learn more

Scammers target both consumers and businesses. The best way to avoid becoming a victim is to be informed and alert. Get to know the different types of scams and how to report them.
Learn more

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Financial Literacy Presentation on April 8

VantageOne Financial Corp. and VantageOne Credit Union are pleased to partner with the Pre-Employment Supports Program to bring you a Financial Literacy Presentation!

Join us on April 8, 2024, at Head of the Lake Hall starting at 5:00pm for an engaging presentation filled with valuable insights.

Come out to connect, learn, and enjoy the event. Plus, attendees will have a chance to win some awesome door prizes!

Mark your calendars!

Learn more about our Financial Ability Program or apply to host a presentation here!

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Service Charge Changes Effective March 1

As a member-owned financial cooperative, we prioritize keeping service charges reasonable and only adjust them when absolutely necessary. Our last change was in 2011/2012, and after careful consideration, we’ve found it necessary to reassess our fees due to increased costs.

Starting March 1, 2025, you’ll see updated account package charges. We have conducted a thorough review of our fees in relation to costs and compared them closely to the market.

While we anticipate minimal impact on most members, please be aware that some fees have lowered along with lowered included transactions, while some packages have increased. For more details, please refer to the links below.

We encourage members who may be impacted by these fee changes to reach out so we can review their monthly transaction needs and help avoid any unexpected fees.

Overview of Consumer Changes New Consumer Account Packages Overview of Commercial Changes New Commercial Account Packages
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Winter Newsletter

Our Winter Newsletter is available now!

  • Glenn shares the CEO message and a recap of 2024
  • The AGM in 2025 is announced and
  • We are seeking qualified applicants for our board of directors

Read it here

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IMPORTANT: Canada Post Strike

You may have heard about the Canada Post mail service disruption due to strike.

We want to ensure that you are aware of the various ways you can continue to access your account information in the event of a postal service disruption.

Due to mail delivery being effected, members will not be able to send or receive financial documents by mail, and the distribution of monthly statements and cards will be delayed.

We encourage you to take advantage of the support and services VantageOne offers to keep you informed and in touch:

  • Sign up for e-statements, ask us how!
  • Call us
  • Utilize Online Banking & our Mobile App
  • Visit us in branch
  • Night Deposit
  • ATM service
  • Online Chat  – click the conversation bubble in the lower right of your screenPotential Canada Post Strike Canada Post strike updates can be found at: www.canadapost.ca 
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November is Financial Literacy Month

Colouring Contest from November 1 to November 30

Stop by one of our branches or print off a colouring sheet here to bring in!
Youth 12 & under could win 1 of 4 prizes of $50 deposited into a youth BOO$T savings account.

Financial Literacy Event at the Vernon Library

Join us and local community partners for a special reading of our youth financial literacy book The Adventures of Cashman and SuperSaver.

About the Book
Loonie and Toonie each want a new bike, but they don’t have enough money. Good thing Cashman and Supersaver are here! Supersaver likes to save her money up, while Cashman chooses to spend his. Can Loonie and Toonie earn enough for new bikes with the help of the superheroes? Using familiar scenarios and timeless characters, The Adventures of Cashman and Supersaver introduces children to the basic financial concepts of earning, spending and saving. Kids can practice what they have learned with interactive fun learning worksheets! Read a recent news article featuring the book here.

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Earn up to $1,000 with our Business Welcome Bonus!

Move your business account to VantageOne and take advantage of these limited time offers:

The Commercial Welcome Bonus includes up to:

$500 Cash from VantageOne Credit Union when you open an operating account plus obtain one other product from the list below:

  • Telpay cash management services (accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll management and more) with 3 months of free transactions and waived application fee
  • 8760 merchant services to accept credit, debit, and online payments with 3 months of free terminal rental
  • Collabria credit card with First Year Annual Fee Rebate and 5,000 Welcome Points

    The total value is estimated at over $1,000!

Ask us for further details!

Already a member? You can earn up to $1,000 when you refer your friends, learn more here.

Phone
Local calls: 250.545.9251
Toll free: 1.888.339.8328

*Earn up to $1,000. For new commercial members, self-employed individuals or for-profit corporations only.

*Terms & conditions apply. Offer subject to change at any time.

 

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Scam Alerts: Local, Online and more

For a current listing of scams, please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

For tips and resources, visit the VantageOne Anti-Fraud page here.

——– March 1, 2025 ——–

Did you know that March is Fraud Awareness and Prevention Month?

Fraud is an ever-present threat in today’s digital age, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can protect yourself and others. This Fraud Awareness Month, take the time to review the different types of scams that exist and educate yourself about how to spot and avoid them. Remember, the best defence against fraud is awareness—stay vigilant and stay safe!

Stay Safe, Stay Informed. Learn more here.

——– February 12, 2025 ——–

Residents across the Central Okanagan are being asked to speak with their elderly family members and friends about the risk of an ongoing “grandparent scam” that is circulating.

According to the RCMP, several people in Kelowna and West Kelowna have fallen victim to scammers who have collected over $20,000 in cash. The scammers collected the money from people who thought they were helping their grandchildren, police said in a news release.

“Police said that the scammer impersonates the grandchild or as a lawyer on their behalf. The scammer then asks for money to secure the grandchild’s bail following an alleged arrest. Once the victim has withdrawn the money, the scammers arrange a pick up location or even arrive at the victim’s house. In most of the cases reported to the RCMP, a woman wearing a face covering arrives, takes the money and leaves on foot.”

Learn more here

——– January 23, 2025 ——–

Canadian police services are alerting the public about a Canada Carbon Tax Rebate e-Transfer scam currently circulating via email and text message. This scam may involve look-alike domains and phishing websites designed to deceive recipients.

Please note that this scam is likely to resurface periodically, particularly around the distribution dates for the Canada Carbon Tax Rebate which are:

  • January 15
  • April 15
  • July 15
  • October 15

Below are examples of fraudulent email/text messages you may receive.

 

——- December 10, 2024 ——–
Canada Post Scam Alert

With the Canada Post strike and the holiday shopping season underway, Canadians are facing a fresh wave of scams, particularly delivery scams, as fraudsters take advantage of the situation to trick people into parting with their money.

Here’s how these scams work and how you can protect yourself:

How the Scams Work:

  1. Phishing Emails or Texts: Scammers often send fake emails or text messages claiming to be from Canada Post or another delivery service. They might tell you there’s an issue with your delivery or that customs fees are due. The message will typically include a link to a fake website where you’ll be asked to enter personal information, like credit card details or your address.
  2. Fake Delivery Notices: Another common scam involves receiving a fake delivery notice, either in the mail or digitally. These notices might claim that a package couldn’t be delivered and that you need to pay a fee to have it rescheduled or released. Some even create a sense of urgency by stating that your package will be returned or destroyed if you don’t act quickly.
  3. Fake Tracking Links: Fraudsters may also provide fake tracking numbers that lead to a fraudulent website. The website might look like an official delivery site, but it’s designed to steal personal information or install malware on your device.

How to Identify Bad Actors:

  • Check the Source: Official communications from Canada Post will always come from an official domain (e.g., “@canadapost.ca”). Be wary of messages from unfamiliar email addresses or numbers.
  • Look for Red Flags: Watch for urgent messages that ask for personal details or payments. Legitimate companies will never ask you to pay for services through strange or untraceable methods (like wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards).
  • Spelling and Grammar: Scammers often make mistakes in spelling, grammar, and formatting. Official communications are usually professionally written.
  • Verify Tracking Information: If you receive an email or message with a tracking number, double-check it on the official Canada Post website by entering it directly. Don’t click on any links in the message.

How to Protect Yourself:

  1. Do Not Click on Links: Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails, texts, or messages, especially those asking for personal information or payment.
  2. Verify Contact Information: If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from Canada Post, contact their customer service directly using official contact details to verify the legitimacy of the message.
  3. Use Secure Payment Methods: Never provide payment details through unsecured channels. Always use secure payment methods and look for HTTPS in the URL before entering any personal information online.
  4. Report Scams: If you’ve been targeted by a scam or have received suspicious communications, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) or the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).

With the rise in scams during busy seasons like the holidays, being vigilant and cautious is crucial to avoid falling victim to fraud.

Learn more about the scams here.

——- October 21, 2024 ——–

Local Online Marketplace Scam

Local police have issued a warning to the public following several people in the Okanagan falling victim to a scam that originates from local online marketplace buy and sell sites.

How does the scam work?

  1. You as the seller, post an item for sale online.
  2. You are contacted by “the buyer” offering to pay you full price for the item you are selling.
  3. “The buyer” claims they will e-transfer the funds to you, asking you to check your email for the notification.
  4. In the email, there is a link that once clicked, takes you to a “legitimate-looking” banking webpage.
  5. The seller is then asked to enter their banking information along with their phone number to receive a verification code through a text message
  6. Once that information is entered, scammers then have direct access to your bank account and can transfer funds out.

How can you avoid this scam?
Police recommend that the sale of online marketplace items be done in a public place with cameras.

If you have fallen victim to a scam, please reach out to your local RCMP detachment Vernon North Okanagan detachment – British Columbia (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)

Protect yourself from fraud, learn more here.

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Earn Cash – Refer Your Friends!

Referrals = Rewards for current members!

Current members can earn $50 per successful referral, up to a maximum of $1,000*!

There are 2 easy ways to participate:

  1. Online –  fill in this form with your friend’s phone number and we will reach out to discuss the Welcome Bonus & book an appointment. Make sure you give your friends a heads up that we will be calling!
  2. In person – Visit a branch or call us and pick up some referral cards to give to your friends. Ask them to bring it with them to their appointment (or Print this form)
    Reminder:     Ask your friend to bring in their referral card or provide our staff with your full contact details at the time of the account opening so that you can get your reward!

How do you get paid?

  • If the friend you refer completes the New Member Welcome Bonus step one within 60 days, you will have your $50 deposited into your account within two weeks from the requirements being met.

*Terms & Requirements

  • Offer is valid for successful account openings only. New members must reach all requirements in step 1, in order to trigger the referral bonus to you. Learn more about the New Member Welcome Bonus here.
  • This offer is for a limited time only and is subject to change at any time.
  • Ask us for further details!
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