2020 was a costly year for some Canadians as many came to grips with the effects of the global pandemic.

According to Kristen Matthews of the Better Business Bureau, advance-fee loan scams were the most popular choice of fraudsters, costing victims on average $1,400 last year.

Other scams related to online shopping and employment also proved to be popular.

Matthews uses employment scams as an example of how criminals are using the vulnerability and emotional appeal of the pandemic to prey on people.

She explains that scammers will offer the ability to work from home, and a great salary and benefits, which will sound good to someone who just lost their job and is desperate to find an income.