As with a similar Equifax survey conducted in 2014, respondents were asked specific questions about mortgage fraud, the challenges of buying a home, and general consumer credit knowledge. Equifax is seeking to help consumers better understand and appreciate the importance of having a strong credit history. "It's concerning that so many younger adults we surveyed believe it's OK to inflate their income to purchase the home they want," said Julie Kuzmic, Director of Consumer Advocacy at Equifax Canada. "Fudging income numbers when completing a mortgage application is fraud. It also becomes a slippery slope for these people who may end up stretching themselves too thin. "Failing to make mortgage payments in full and on time can negatively impact your credit history and credit scores," added Kuzmic. "What some may see as a little white lie during the mortgage application process could have legal consequences or become a very hard lesson for people to learn if they cannot keep up with their mortgage payments."