Image Credit: CFJC Today

By James Peters

Email Scam

Your desire for a COVID-19 vaccine could make you a scam target: Kamloops RCMP

Mar 1, 2021 | 3:32 PM

KAMLOOPS — RCMP say the latest twist on email scams seen by Kamloops residents takes advantage of the public’s desire for COVID-19 vaccines.

In a news release, Cst. Crystal Evelyn says in one mid-February example, a local resident received an email requesting their social insurance number (SIN) and financial information. The emailer said this information would help get the victim signed up for a COVID-19 vaccination.

Not long after, the resident received a phone call from “CMC Finance”, with the caller looking for more personal information.

Evelyn says this is not the only fraudster taking advantage of the unique circumstances around the COVID-19 pandemic to try to scam a buck or two. She notes the federal government’s Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) has also been the basis for several fraud templates.

Evelyn reminds residents that public health officials, police officers nor Canada Revenue Agency officials will call or email looking for personal or financial information. Anyone who receives such a call or email should hang up and call the agency back at a number they know is credible.

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Tips for protecting yourself from email phishing scams (per Kamloops RCMP):

• 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.