Scam Targeting RIBO Exam Candidates

RIBO has been made aware of a scam targeting individuals seeking to write the RIBO exams.

RIBO is aware of at least one instance where a fraudster impersonated both a RIBO exam service provider and a RIBO employee using unauthorized logos, fake documents, misleading links, and social media ads to collect payments, administer fake exams, and/or issue falsified results. The scam also involved creating a fake RIBO exam and delivering it to the scam victims. We continue to investigate this matter in collaboration with our exam service providers and legal authorities and will provide updates if new information becomes available.

RIBO does not administer exams directly. Only two organizations are authorized by RIBO to deliver exams on its behalf: the Insurance Institute of Canada (IIC) and the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO). Any other provider or platform claiming to offer RIBO exams is not authorized and is fraudulent.

How to Protect Yourself

• Only register through official links and emails listed below.
• Verify communications are legitimate. RIBO and its exam providers will never contact you through social media or messaging apps.
• Do not register through Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp or any other social platforms.
• Do not send payment via e-transfer, cash apps, or cryptocurrency. Exam service providers will never request payment through those methods.
• Be wary of unofficial-looking websites or poorly written communications.
• RIBO and its exam providers will never request documents related to your immigration status or ask about your status as a condition to write the exam or apply for your license.

Official RIBO Exam Providers

To ensure you are dealing with a legitimate source, only register or communicate through one of the following authorized organizations and always verify that email addresses and web links end in their official domains:

1. Insurance Institute of Canada (IIC)

• Website: www.insuranceinstitute.ca
• Email: exams@insuranceinstitute.ca
• Phone Number: 1-866-362-8585

2. Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO)

• Website: www.ibao.org
• Email: exams@ibao.on.ca
• Phone Number: 1-800-268-8845

What to Do If You Suspect Fraudulent Activity

If you believe you have been scammed or have encountered suspicious exam-related activity, take immediate action:

• Report the incident to RIBO at exam@ribo.com and the exam provider you thought you were dealing with
• Notify your bank or credit card provider to prevent further financial loss
• File a report with your local police.

There is helpful information on the Government of Canada’s Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre webpage regarding recent scams and fraud, reporting fraud, what to do if you are a victim, and more.

Even if you are unsure, RIBO encourages you to report suspicious activity. Your report could help protect others, and we must all stay vigilant.