TORONTO, Oct. 8, 2026 /CNW/ -- As Cybersecurity Awareness Month takes place across Canada this October, ABC Life Literacy Canada is highlighting the connection between digital literacy and consumer protection. Through the free ABC Connect for Learning digital literacy program, people are building the skills and confidence they need to navigate the online world safely.
From banking and shopping to communicating with friends and accessing information, more everyday activities now take place online. But being comfortable using technology doesn't always mean knowing how to recognize a scam, protect personal information or determine whether a website or message can be trusted.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre reported more than $704 million in losses to fraud in 2025, and says fraudsters continue to use tactics such as impersonation, urgency and convincing communications to obtain money or sensitive information.
"Digital literacy is about more than just knowing how to use a device or navigate a website," says Alison Howard, Executive Director at ABC Life Literacy Canada. "It also means having the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions online. When people know what to look for, they are better equipped to protect their information, recognize potential scams and make safer choices."
ABC Connect for Learning offers free workbooks, downloadable activities, online courses and videos covering practical digital skills. Its Stay Safe Online collection includes resources on topics such as protecting personal information, creating strong passwords, spotting spam emails, recognizing secure websites and staying safe on social media. Users can also explore topics such as 2-step verification for online banking, website pop-ups, cookies and safely searching for information online.
These resources are designed for people at different stages of their digital learning journey. Whether someone is just getting started with the internet or wants to build their confidence with newer technology, ABC Connect for Learning provides accessible, practical resources they can use at home or in a learning environment.
Staying safe online isn't only about protecting devices. It is also about protecting people, money and personal information. A suspicious email, an unfamiliar pop-up, a social media message asking for urgent payment or a website requesting personal information can all present risks. Developing the skills to pause, check information and make an informed decision can help consumers avoid potential fraud.
The ABC Connect for Learning resources provide practical opportunities to build those skills. Learners can work through activities on passwords, secure websites, spam emails, social media safety and online misinformation at their own pace.
Learn how to protect your information, recognize potential scams and build the digital skills needed to navigate the online world with greater confidence. Visit abcconnectforlearning.ca to explore free resources or to sign up to host a workshop.
This program is presented nationally and is partly funded by the Government of Canada through the Canadian Consumer Protection Initiative.
About ABC Life Literacy Canada
ABC Life Literacy Canada® is a national charitable organization that champions literacy by empowering adult learners, raising awareness, and supporting the adult learning sector. We develop and support the use of foundational learning materials and help to build the capacity of the sector by convening and connecting the adult literacy community, and advocating for skills programming. We envision a Canada where everyone has the skills and opportunities to fully participate in learning, life, and work. For more information about literacy in Canada and ABC Life Literacy Canada's programs, visit abclifeliteracy.ca.
SOURCE ABC Life Literacy Canada
For more information, please contact: Ashley Tilley, Communications, ABC Life Literacy Canada, communications@abclifeliteracy.ca
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