The reason that Canadians of all ages will continue to be victimized by these four common scams in 2023 is because they work. Recognize them and be better protected in 2023:
Emergency Scams: Emails and frequently late night telephone calls explain that a loved one needs medical, or legal, or transportation assistance – and that money is required immediately.
Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Scams: Scammers pose as CRA collections staff and call claiming your taxes have not been fully paid. Threat is often “Pay immediately or you’ll be arrested”.
Sextortion: Scammers pose as suitors to obtain compromising images of the victim, then demand money or the images will be shared online. Victims can be of any age, but young people are particularly vulnerable and become most desperate.
Bank Investigation Scams: Yes, this surprisingly transparent scam continues. Criminals posing as bank employees try to enlist your help with an internal branch investigation that requires you make withdraws, transfers, or gift card purchases in order to gather evidence. You’ll be asked to “tell no one else about your secret participation, not even the police”.
To better protect yourself, read Sergeant Bob’s C.P.R. “First Aid” for Potential Fraud Victims and learn more about the most recent scams and frauds by visiting The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.