Protect yourself from Phone Related Scam

March is Fraud Prevention Month, and this week raises awareness of phone-related scams. A crime prevention initiative aimed at educating and informing consumers and communities on how to recognize, report and stop fraud. Scammers can target anyone, protect yourself from becoming a victim of fraud. Together, with local RCMP detachments, we create a strong awareness to spread the messages on how to better protect yourself from these types of crime.

Canadian statistics and the impact of fraud as of February 28, 2021:

• 11,266 reports of fraud so far in 2021 (69,411 in 2020)
• 7,646 victims of fraud in Canada so far in 2021 (41,007 in 2020)
• Canadians have already lost 34.6 Million to fraud in 2021 (107.5 Million in 2020)

Canadian statistics and the impact of fraud as of February 28, 2021:

• 11,266 reports of fraud so far in 2021 (69,411 in 2020)
• 7,646 victims of fraud in Canada so far in 2021 (41,007 in 2020)
• Canadians have already lost 34.6 Million to fraud in 2021 (107.5 Million in 2020)

Here are some tips and tricks to protect yourself from phone-related scams:

• Do not be afraid to say no: Beware of intimating high-pressure sales tactics. If a telemarketer tries to get you to buy something or if they request you to send money the right way, either ask for more information in writing or hang up. Watch out for urgent pleas that play on emotion.
  
  
• Research: Always verify that the organization you are dealing with is legitimate before taking any action. Verify Canadian charities with the Canada Revenue Agency website, before giving any money to them. Verify collection agencies that accuse you of owing them money. Confirm with your credit card company about fraud by calling the number on the back of your card. Watch out for fake or deceptive ads, or spoofed emails. Always verify the company and its services are real before you contact them.
  

• Protect your information: Do not give out personal information. Beware of unsolicited calls where the caller asks you for personal information like your name, address, SIN number, Credit Card, or banking information. Remember if you did not initiate the call, you do not know who you are talking to.
  
  
• Beware of upfront fees: Many scammers request you to pay fees in advance of receiving goods, services, or a prize. It is illegal for a company to ask you to pay a fee upfront before they will give you a loan. There is no prize fees or taxes on prizes in Canada.

Have you been a victim of a scam or fraud?

If you have NOT lost money but suspect you have been targeted, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 to file a report. If you receive a suspicious email soliciting your financial information, advise the bank/agency involved. If you are a victim of fraud, call the police non-emergency line and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.

Protect your information and be vigilant. Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it is.

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