Census website
A legitimate Statistics Canada website can be identified in several ways. Look for these features:
- The site URL in the browser address bar should end with ".gc.ca". This suffix is used by the Government of Canada and operated by Government Telecommunications and Informatics Services.
- The security certificate is provided by Entrust and clearly identifies Statistics Canada as the owner of the site.
- Check for HTTPS in the address bar and a padlock icon. This means the website encrypts your data and protects your privacy.
Text messages
As part of the 2026 Census, Statistics Canada will be sending text message reminders to households that have not yet completed their census questionnaire. The number "236732" is the text message short code used by Statistics Canada to reach respondents.
Invitation letters
As part of the 2026 Census, an invitation letter will be sent by mail or delivered in person to all private dwellings. The letter provides information about the census, as well as instructions on how to complete the census questionnaire online.
Visits and phone calls from enumerators
Every census employee will have an identification card that features the Statistics Canada identifier, along with their name, employment number and photo.
If a follow-up phone call to a household is needed, the census employee will identify themselves clearly.
If you would like to verify a census employee's identity, starting February 2, 2026, you can call the Census Help Line at 1-833-314-3652.
Protecting your privacy
Statistics Canada places the highest priority on protecting your privacy as well as maintaining the confidentiality and security of completed questionnaires. For more information on the confidentiality and protection of your personal information, check out Protecting your privacy.