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Halifax Regional Police is sharing some fraud prevention tips to help citizens safeguard their personal information and money.
From emails claiming that your bank account has been compromised to phone calls advising that you’ve won a free cruise, fraudsters will use any opportunity to get their hands on your identity and/or your money. We’re sharing a few “red flags” to help you recognize potential frauds.
Fraud red flags
- Unsolicited phone calls, emails or texts often claiming that your bank account has been compromised, you owe money to the Canadian Revenue Agency or your Social Insurance Number has been stolen. The person contacting you often asks for personal or financial information, or if the contact is by email or text, includes a link to a website.
- Fear tactic such as threats of criminal charges, jail time or large fines if you don’t comply with demands.
- Creating a sense of urgency to take immediate action so you don’t have time to think the situation through or consult someone else.
- Demands to make payments in bitcoin or gift cards.
- Jobs, business opportunities or deals that seem too good to be true. You know the old adage – “if it’s too good to be true, it probably is.”
What to do if you encounter a fraud:
- Be vigilant and don’t provide any money or financial or personal information until you have verified the legitimacy of the person or the organization they claim to represent.
- Check the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for information on current scams.
- Call police at 902.490.5016 if you've lost money or your identity has been compromised as a result of a fraud. You can report a scam where you haven’t been a victim to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.