March 2024

Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA)

March 2024

Spring is almost here and along with it we're excited to present a new look for Consumer Edge! We're dedicated to delivering the same great content you expect but with a fresh appearance.

In this issue, find out what kind of projects the OCA's call for proposals is seeking to fund and join the global conversation on consumer rights for World Consumer Rights Day. Lastly, you'll find resources on fraud prevention from the Competition Bureau.

Accessing the right tools and resources to make informed decisions at the grocery store makes it easier for you and your family to save money.

The Office of Consumer Affairs' Canadian Consumer Protection Initiative open call for proposals, which launched in February, is focused on this very issue. From podcasts to web apps and everything in between, the OCA Contributions Program for consumer advocacy work is seeking project proposals from organizations to develop and implement communications tools so you can be informed about grocery savings in real time.

If you are an eligible organization, there's still time to apply for funding! Details on the Program's eligibility requirements and assessment criteria can be found in the Applicant's Guide.

Visit the Contributions Program page to learn more about the Program.

Picture this: You wake up in the morning, reach for your phone, and ask your virtual assistant for the weather forecast. Instantly, it provides you with a detailed update. Later, you search for a recipe online, and within seconds, you have hundreds of options at your fingertips. Oh and remember those friendly chatbots that helped you troubleshoot the technical issue you were having? These are all ways in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) works behind the scenes to shape your daily experiences.

With AI technology still developing, World Consumer Rights Day this year focuses on highlighting the importance of Fair and Responsible AI for consumers!

Be part of an important conversation and follow the campaign's hashtags on social media: #WorldConsumerRightsDay, #WCRD24.

Knowledge is your strongest tool when it comes to fighting fraud and that's why the Competition Bureau, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, and partners from across the country are dedicating March to providing you with valuable information on how to recognize, reject and report fraud.

The campaign this year will highlight 20 years of fighting fraud: from then to now. From telemarketing and mail to social media and artificial intelligence, the way fraud has evolved with the use of technology over the years will be the focus of this campaign. 

Stay informed by following the #FPM2024 hashtag and follow the Competition Bureau on Facebook, X/Twitter and LinkedIn. For more information and resources, visit the Fraud Prevention Month website.