By Roger White

Email and phone scammers again targeting area residents

Jan 4, 2018 | 11:00 AM

It looks as if fraudulent emails and telephone calls are once again making their rounds where people are seeking personal information or donations on behalf of different agencies including the RCMP.

Const. James Fenrich of the Battleford’s RCMP detachment said there are in fact many agencies that make contact with people for a genuine purpose of fundraising however there are malicious fraudsters looking to take advantage of people and defraud them of their hard earned money.

“If you get a call for a donation from any agency or organization it’s prudent to do a bit of research before making any kind of commitment or donation,” Fenrich said. “Usually the more questions you ask about the caller’s organization the quicker you will see holes in their solicitation.”

Fenrich also added the Battleford’s RCMP does not call looking for donations to programs nor to the detachment itself.

He added if anyone claims they are from your financial institution and there are issues with your account, go and see your bank directly or call the number on the back of your bank card to discuss the situation. It is very rare that a bank would ever contact you over email or via a phone call and it is always safer if you contact them directly yourself, Fenrich said.

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Many residents have also been the target of phishing scams via emails claiming the victim owes money or an item needs immediate attention. Several companies such as Air Canada, Canada Post and Imperil parking have been used recently and require victims to click on a link to rectify the problem.

“Never click on these links,” he added. “These links will allow the individual sending the email to access any personal information you may have on your computer such as banking information, social insurance number or credit card numbers.”  

These types of frauds can see people lose significant amounts of money and even their life savings. Often the perpetrators prey on the elderly even claiming to be relatives and requesting money to help them through a variety of situations or hard times.

Fenrich said if you suspect any type of fraud or suspicious activity, please do not hesitate to call the Battleford’s RCMP Detachment.

roger.white@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: RJWtheReporter