The Moose Jaw Police Service continues to urge the public to be alert and aware when conducting businesses or responding to calls and online requests in order to avoid possible identity theft and scams.
This was reinforced at a public information session at the Moose Jaw Public Library in 2018 where the police outlined ways in which persons can avoid scams, a phenomenon that has made many Canadians victims of these illicit activities.
Identity theft and scams have become a widespread problem as unscrupulous persons target individuals especially the elderly either online, via telephone or when conducting businesses at banks. The Moose Jaw Police has outlined how important it is for people to be alert and aware of these activities at all times.
Constable Kent Westrom, of the Moose Jaw Police made a thorough presentation outlining some of the ways scammers use to either defraud or scam people out of their money. He urged persons to be cognizant and not be lured by these activities.
“You have to be able to identify red flags when you get a call for example claiming you have won something. Many times, they may say you have to pay to claim these prizes and that is a red flag,” he explained.
He gave examples of scams, alluding to lottery scams where he explained that persons advise their victims to pay to claim prizes. He said frauds, which are illegal acts and deceptions to take people’s money are also very prevalent.
“For example, some people use stolen photos on the internet like on Kijiji or Discover Moose Jaw as avenues to defraud people. Do your research when purchasing things online; try to do business online locally where you can obtain an accessible address and contact number, for example, in Moose Jaw instead of somewhere in another country where you have no access to the individual.”
Constable Westrom noted that one of the most popular ones is that scammers call and play on people’s emotions about needing money for a loved one in the hospital or need for bail money because someone is in trouble.
“That’s a red flag. Do not write a cheque for anyone doing this if you don’t know them and if they claim to know you, and if you’re not sure, notify the police.”
Constable Westrom said a lot of people have complained about getting phone calls from Revenue Canada about them owing some amount of money. He reassured people that this is not legitimate, and they should not send their money anywhere.
“These agencies do not call you and threaten to send the police for any money. Notify us and we will deal with it. These are coming up as scams and frauds,” he reiterated.
