The federal government is stepping up efforts to combat immigration fraud, warning that scams targeting people seeking to work or immigrate to Canada continue to evolve alongside new technologies.

In a statement marking Fraud Prevention Month, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada said enforcement actions taken in 2025 included investigating more than 95,000 suspected fraud cases and refusing tens of thousands of applications tied to misrepresentation.

Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab said fraudsters often pressure applicants with promises of guaranteed visas or faster processing — claims the government says are always false.

Officials are urging applicants and employers to “spot, stop and report” suspected fraud by verifying representatives through official government channels and reporting suspicious activity to authorities.

The department said recent measures include stronger screening tools, tougher penalties for dishonest immigration consultants, and proposed legislative changes under Bill C-12 aimed at strengthening border security and preventing misuse of immigration and asylum programs.