Financial and Consumer Services Commission of New Brunswick publishes consumer survey showing rising scam losses and support gaps during major life events

The Financial and Consumer Services Commission of New Brunswick published new findings from its 2025-2026 Consumer Index showing that major life events and fraud are creating financial vulnerability for many residents. The survey found 46 per cent of New Brunswickers experienced a major life event in the past year, but only 29 per cent sought help to understand the financial impact. It also found that 13 per cent reported losing money to a scam, up from 11 per cent in 2025. In that context, the Commission pointed to Finfo.ca, a consumer education website launched last month to provide practical guidance for situations such as financial stress, relationship changes and supporting aging parents. The results suggest consumers often rely on informal or potentially unreliable sources when under pressure. Among those who sought support, 39 per cent of adults aged 18 to 39 used the internet or online forums, while people caring for an aging parent were far more likely to report losses to a financial scam than those who were not, at 33 per cent versus 11 per cent. Cryptocurrency scams accounted for 28 per cent of reported losses and investment scams for 22 per cent. The survey also showed a gap between confidence and outcomes: 86 per cent said they were confident managing money, yet nearly a third reported unexpected fees when buying financial products and 26 per cent said they had entered contracts they did not fully understand. At the same time, respondents indicated clearer explanations from financial service providers on some credit, insurance, mortgage and investment products compared with 2025.