Kamloops RCMP Detachment Media Release
March 1, 2021
The Kamloops RCMP Detachment is urging residents to be vigilant after receiving multiple reports of locally-circulating scams.
Over the last couple of weeks, Kamloops police have been contacted about scams related to the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), the Canadian Revenue Agency, Covid-19 vaccinations, and Bitcoin. In some cases, residents provided personal information and money transfers.
“As tax season ramps up and more Covid-19 vaccinations roll out, the environment is primed for fraudsters to prey on unsuspecting victims,” said Corporal Dana Napier of the Crime Prevention Unit. “It’s very important for people to be vigilant in protecting their personal information.”
In mid-February, a Kamloops resident received an email requesting their SIN number and financial information for Covid-19 vaccination registration. Soon after, the person received a phone call from “CMC Finance” asking for further personal details.
If someone calls or emails you claiming to be a public health employee, a police officer, or Canada Revenue Agency officer looking to confirm a credit card number or any other personal information, do not provide it to them. Contact the agency at a number you know is legit, not one provided by the potential scammer. Hang up on phone calls, delete emails you do not recognize, and do not click on any links within the email.
Since the Government of Canada launched its CERB, it has become the subject of a number of scams.
The phishing scams are sent by email or text, and the messaging suggests you can submit an application, then that your information needs to be confirmed or that your payment is ready. If you click the included link, you will be directed to a fraudulent website and asked to submit your personal information. Providing your personal or financial information puts you at-risk for identity fraud.
Tips for protecting yourself from email phishing scams:
- Do not open any emails or attachments from unknown or suspicious addresses.
- Do not use phone numbers or email links that were provided in the email. Research company contact information independently.
- Do not reply to the email.
- Do not give out your personal or financial information.
- Confirm invoices with the issuing company directly.
Remember
· If you aren’t receiving services from a company, you won’t have an invoice.
· No government agency or bank will threaten to arrest you.
· No government agencies will request payment in Bitcoin, iTunes cards, gift cards or interact e-transfers.
· Government of Canada and provincial government services are free to access.
· Immediately report any unauthorized credit applications to the associated financial institution and the credit bureaus, Equifax and TransUnion.
If you have lost money or valuables, or provided your personal information, contact Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 and the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre.