Manning RCMP reminds residents about the importance of staying vigilant as more of our daily activities take place online and over the phone. With the rise in digital communication, fraudsters are finding new ways to scam unsuspecting victims.
Manning RCMP offers the following tips on how to protect yourself from online fraud and scams:
- Protect your computer and accounts and be cautious of urgent-looking pop-ups and suspicious emails with spelling or formatting errors.
- Don’t click on unknown links or attachments.
- Use anti-virus software and keep your operating system up to date.
- Secure your online accounts with strong and unique passwords.
- Do not use the same password for numerous accounts.
- Don’t be afraid to say no. If a caller pressures you to buy something or send money immediately, hang up. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to manipulate victims.
- Confirm the legitimacy of businesses by checking official websites and contacting them directly before you act. If someone calls about a family member in trouble, reach out to others before acting.
- Guard your personal information and never share personal details (name, address, date of birth, banking info, etc.) unless you initiated the contact. You never know who’s on the other end of an unsolicited call or message.
“We at the Manning RCMP are urging the public to stay vigilant regarding keeping your personal and financial information private. Scammers are increasingly sophisticated, often impersonating trusted authorities like police, banks, or government officials to solicit your personal and banking information. Never share your information with unsolicited callers or texters. Avoid clinking on suspicious links in emails or texts. No legitimate organization will ask you for a payment in gift cards for any reason. If you didn’t enter a contest, you’re not a winner. Report all frauds to your local RCMP at 780-836-3769 as well as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.” – Cpl. David Fogarty
For more fraud prevention tips, follow Alberta RCMP on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.