Online fraud is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Today's scams are more convincing, more personalized, and increasingly difficult to recognize, whether they arrive through a phishing email, a fake investment opportunity, a romance scam, or even a voice that sounds like someone you know and trust. In this episode of CIBC Smart Advice, host Carissa Lucreziano speaks with Joe LoBianco, Chief Information Security Officer at CIBC, about how fraud has changed, the warning signs Canadians should never ignore, and the simple habits that can significantly improve your online security. Together, they discuss how banks detect suspicious activity before clients even know something is wrong, why scammers rely on urgency and emotional manipulation, and how tools like password managers and multi-factor authentication can provide an extra layer of protection. Joe also shares practical advice on what to do if you believe you've been targeted by fraud and the trusted resources available to help Canadians stay informed. About Joe LoBianco Joe LoBianco is Chief Information Security Officer at CIBC, where he leads the bank's cybersecurity strategy and the teams responsible for protecting clients, employees, systems, and data from evolving cyber threats. With more than 20 years at CIBC, he is focused on building trust through innovative security solutions that help keep Canadians safe in an increasingly digital world. Resources Mentioned / Links List ● CIBC's "Smart Advice" Podcast and Website - Website | Apple Podcasts | Spotify ● Visit CIBC for more Smart Advice ● Joe LoBianco | Linkedin ● Canadian Anti-Scam Coalition | standagainstscams.ca/ ● Stand Against Scams | Instagram 3 Reasons Why You Should Listen to This Episode Learn how today's most common scams work, and the warning signs that can help you recognize them before it's too late.Discover practical cybersecurity habits, including password management and multi-factor authentication, that can better protect your personal information and finances.Understand how CIBC detects suspicious activity behind the scenes and why slowing down may be your best defence against fraud. Episode Highlights [02:40] How Banks Detect Fraud Before Clients Know Joe explains how transaction monitoring, behavioural patterns, and real-time analysis help identify suspicious activity before fraud escalates. [04:42] The New Reality of Modern Scams Joe explores how fraud has evolved beyond phishing emails to include romance scams, investment fraud, and increasingly sophisticated impersonation tactics. [08:21] The Biggest Red Flag to Watch For "Usually, the fraudsters will try to manufacture some sense of urgency." Joe explains why pressure and emotional manipulation are at the heart of many scams, and why slowing down can be your best defence. [10:09] Strengthening Your Everyday Security Joe shares practical ways to better protect your accounts, from password managers to multi-factor authentication and biometrics. [19:14] Think Before You Click "There really is no urgency in most situations to acting." Joe shares the simple mindset he applies to suspicious emails, texts, and messages, and why taking a moment before responding can prevent costly mistakes. Enjoyed this Episode? If you did, be sure to subscribe and share it with your friends! Protecting yourself from fraud starts with staying informed. CIBC offers a range of resources to help you recognize scams, strengthen your digital security, and stay up to date on emerging fraud trends. Visit our website to explore more articles, tools, and expert advice designed to help you bank with confidence. Have any questions? You can connect with me on LinkedIn or through CIBC's Facebook or Instagram. Thanks for tuning in! For more updates, visit our website. You can also listen to more amazing episodes on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
