Archives - Did You Know?

2009

Responding to spam by clicking on "remove" or "unsubscribe" links in the messages you receive only confirms your email address to spammers, causing you to receive more spam. Click here for more hints on reducing spam.

You should check your bank account, credit card or investment statements each month. By carefully reading through them, you can spot errors and inform your bank or financial institution right away. Click here for more tips on protecting yourself from identity theft.

Your SIN card and birth certificate should always be kept locked in a safe place, such as a safety deposit box, unless you need to bring them with you for a specific purpose. Click here for more tips on protecting yourself from identity theft.

You can obtain a free copy of your credit report by mail once a year. Simply contact one of the three major credit bureaus to request your report. Click here for more tips on protecting yourself from identity theft.

Identity theft does not solely take place online. Protect your mail and shred mail containing your personal information when it's no longer needed. Click here for more tips on protecting yourself from identity theft.

Small businesses that have fewer than 50 employees contribute almost one quarter of Canada's GDP.

2008

You can visit the Spectrum Auctions website to learn how the Government of Canada is working to improve the wireless marketplace for consumers and businesses.

Cellphone per-minute rates may differ depending on the time of day you make or receive a phone call. For more information on how to keep your cellphone costs in check and make an informed decision when buying a cellphone and package, check out Cellphone Choices for Canadians: A Checklist and A Guide.

Industry Canada's work is not only confined to this country. The department participates in more than 200 international organisations and forums.

Frequently paying your bills after their due date may add up to serious debt. To learn more, check out Take charge of your debts, an online debt-management tool.

2007

A 2007 study attributes 17 percent of labour productivity growth and about 9 percent of growth in economic output (real GDP) to standardization.

In 2006, 48 percent of the total labour force in the private sector worked for small businesses in Canada.

Industry Canada has a budget template available to help post-secondary students manage their spending.