B.C. consumers will benefit from stronger tools to protect against credit-related fraud and to support confident financial decision-making, with the introduction of the second phase of amendments to modernize consumer protection laws.

“These changes will help consumers take control of their financial health and protect British Columbians against credit fraud and misleading business practices,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “We’re continuing to modernize our laws to reflect the realities of today’s marketplace and ensure consumers have the tools they need to make informed financial decisions.”

If passed, the new amendments will:

• help consumers access their credit report and score monthly for free and set up security alerts and credit freezes free of charge, providing more people with control of their critical financial information;
• create new rules for credit-reporting agencies and credit-repair businesses to ensure their services are being delivered to consumers accurately and transparently; and 
• create new roadblocks to help protect against identity and credit fraud, making it harder for fraudsters to open credit card accounts or take out loans.

The proposed legislative changes will update the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act (BPCPA), the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA), and the Motor Dealer Act (MDA), building on the first phase of reforms passed in March 2025.

“These changes will give people stronger control over their credit information and the ability to make confident financial decisions,” said Diana Gibson, Minister of Citizens’ Services. “Removing barriers people face when accessing and correcting credit information is important for their financial security.”

The credit-related protections bring B.C. in line with other consumer-protection laws in place across Canada, such as in Quebec and Ontario.

These amendments were developed based on industry and stakeholder engagement and consultation, including input from consumer-advocacy groups. The Province will continue to work with Consumer Protection B.C. and stakeholders to support a smooth transition and ensure businesses have time to adjust their practices.

These amendments are part of government’s work to protect consumers, including newcomers and people with lower incomes or disabilities, and build a fairer marketplace that works for all people in British Columbia.

Quotes:

Tolga Yalkin, CEO, B.C. Financial Services Authority –

“As B.C.’s regulator of financial services, we welcome efforts to strengthen consumer protection. We value ongoing collaboration with government and stakeholders to advance consumer protection and help ensure the financial sector remains responsive to the needs of British Columbians.”

Peta V. Wales, president and CEO, Credit Counselling Society –

“Consumers deserve tools that not only protect them from fraud but also help them take charge of their financial future. Regular, free access to credit reports, faster error correction and stronger rules around credit-repair services are important steps toward building trust and confidence in the financial system, while also reducing the stress and anxiety that can be felt by many when it comes to managing their finances.”

Sue Hutchison, president and CEO, Equifax Canada –

“Equifax Canada is excited to partner with the government to empower consumers by introducing credit freeze in the province. We know this can significantly enhance consumers’ ability to protect themselves against the impacts of fraud and identity theft. This collaboration with the B.C. government underscores our unwavering commitment to helping Canadians live their financial best, and we support B.C. as they implement stronger tools for consumers to protect themselves against credit-related fraud.”

Juan Sebastian D’Achiardi, regional president, TransUnion Canada –

“TransUnion Canada is proud to continue our collaboration with the Government of British Columbia to advance consumer protection. These proposed legislative changes reflect a shared commitment to empower consumers with stronger tools to safeguard their financial information. New measures, such as the introduction of credit freeze, is a strong step forward to protect British Columbians from fraud and enhance confidence and security. At TransUnion, we remain strongly committed to supporting Canadians in making informed financial decisions and ensuring these protections deliver meaningful value to British Columbians.”

Quick Facts:

• The first phase of consumer protection amendments to the BPCPA through Bill 4 focused on promoting contract fairness and transparency, and protecting against predatory sales practices.
• Bill 4 passed on March 3, 2025, and received royal assent on March 31, 2025.

Learn More:

To learn about the first phase of reforms, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025AG0013-000139

For more information about consumer protections for people in British Columbia, visit: https://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/

To read the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, visit: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/04002_00

To learn more about B.C. legislation, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/legislation

A backgrounder follows.