OTTAWA — Fraudsters are impersonating the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, the federal agency that collects information on fraud and identity theft, and provides information about past and current scams.
In a joint news release Tuesday, the CAFC, Ontario Provincial Police and the RCMP issued a warning about the increasing threat posed by criminals claiming to represent them.
They said Canadians are being approached at times by individuals claiming to be working on an ongoing CAFC investigation using the agency's letterhead and logo.
In other instances, they are "spoofing" police phone numbers to make it appear they are calling from a police service.
The announcement included a description of the three most common impersonation scams to watch out for:
- BANK INVESTIGATOR — The fraudster claims to be from a bank, a major credit card provider or a business such as Amazon, and claims there are unauthorized charges on your account, or that your account is compromised. They may send you a letter via email, including the CAFC logo, stating you must cooperate in order to help them nab the suspect. False contact information (phone number and email address) is provided so that you communicate with them.
- TECH SUPPORT — The fraudster claims a virus has infected your computer, and that your device requires servicing because it is sending out viruses to others, or has been hacked. They request access to your computer and may run programs or alter settings. Victims are contacted with alarming website pop-ups that demand you call the displayed number immediately, or through unsolicited phone calls in which they may claim to be a computer company employee. Fraudsters may also send a fraudulent letter by email which may include the CAFC logo.
- RECOVERY PITCH. Victims of a fraud may be targeted again with a promise to get their money back. Fraudsters will claim to be from a government agency or law enforcement and ask for help with a "sting" operation to take down the scammers. They may send a letter by email including the CAFC logo.
Anyone who suspects they have been the victim of any fraud is urged to contact their local police service, OPP, or Crime Stoppers, and may also report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
