Cybersecurity Tips and Common Scams – Edmonton Neighbourhood Watch

CYBER SECURITY TIPS

Do not click unexpected links in emails, text messages, screen pop up
windows and web pages
Do not give out personal information
Practice good password management
Install trusted antivirus/anti-malware software to protect you
and your device
Resist the pressure to act immediately
Do not pay by gift cards or money transfer service and NEVER deposit a
cheque or accept free money to send back to someone you do not know
When in doubt, STOP! and talk to someone you trust
Set up a secret code known to you and your family members.
Ignore unsolicited phone calls and add call control to block spam callers
Back up your data safely and regularly

COMMON SCAMS

Scammers often stick to the same tricks because they work. To keep yourself safe, it’s important to know the most common types of fraud out there. Most scams come with telltale signs that are pretty easy to spot. Stay alert to these signs, and you’ll be less likely to fall for a scam.

Grandparent Scams: A scammer may impersonate a loved one or family member, claiming they’ve been in an accident or charged with a serious offense like a DUI. They often pass the phone to a second fraudster posing as a lawyer or police officer, who then demands money to bail the loved one out of jail.

Romance Scams
Bank Scams
Offshore Investment Scams
Cyptocurrency Scams:
Property Management Scams
Charity Scams
Memorial Scams
Immigration Scams
Medical Scams
Tech Support Scams
Canada Revenue Agency Scams:
Identity Theft Scams: Identity theft happens when someone takes your personal information to access your bank accounts, credit, or other financial resources

Impersonation Scams: Impersonation is when someone pretends to be you. They might gather details about you from social media and then use that information for their own gain.
Contest/Lottery/Sweepstake Scams
Shipping Fee Scams
Job Scams

What to do if you have been scammed

To report a scam in progress or if you have lost money, call EPS Non-Emergency Line: 780.423.4567 or #377
To report a fraud or scam, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre toll free at 1-888-495-8501 or through the Report a Fraud.
To report a CRA scam: Report CRA Scam
To report a spam: Report a Spam
To report a Property management or Mortgage Scams: Contac RECA – Real Estate Council of Alberta:
To reduce unsolicited phone calls: Register your numbers on National Do Not Call List (DNCL)
If you require support, please contact Crime and Trauma-Informed Support Services at 780-421-2217 or via email