The holiday season is here, and while most of us are focused on shopping, celebrating, and spending time with loved ones, scammers are unfortunately getting busy too. We are seeing a big rise in online scams across Canada, and many of them are targeting Edmonton residents specifically.
Here are the most common scams happening right now and how you can protect yourself and your family.
- Fake Shopping Deals and Social Media Ads
This year, scammers are creating extremely realistic ads on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. Many lead to fake retail sites that look identical to real stores.
Red flags: unbelievable discounts, sellers asking for e transfers or gift cards, no order tracking, or pages with very few reviews.
- Investment Scams and Quick Money Offers
Canada is seeing a spike in fake investment offers, especially crypto or guaranteed return ads that appear online.Scammers sometimes use AI generated videos or fake expert profiles to make the scheme look legitimate.
- Tech Support and Account Compromise Scams
Pop ups or calls claiming your computer, bank account, or phone has been compromised are increasing again.
Real companies will never ask to take remote control of your device or pressure you to move money for safety.
- AI Powered Identity Fraud
Scammers are now using AI tools to:
- Clone voices
- Fake photos or videos
- Mimic company logos
- Create extremely convincing emails or messages
They may pretend to be banks, delivery companies, or even someone you know.
- Fake Delivery Notices and Shipping Texts
Expect more texts saying your package is delayed, needs address verification, or has unpaid fees. These links often lead to phishing websites designed to steal your information.
- QR Code and Tap Payment Tricks
A newer trend involves scammers placing fake QR codes in public spaces or intercepting tap payments in crowded areas.
How to Protect Yourself
Here is a quick safety checklist:
- Buy only from trusted retailers. Go directly to their website instead of clicking ads
- Avoid e transfers to sellers you do not know
- Use credit cards for better fraud protection
- Do not click links in unexpected delivery texts or emails
- Do not share banking or personal information through text, email, or social media
- Turn on two factor authentication wherever possible
- Slow down. Scammers rely on pressure and urgency
- If something feels off, trust your instincts
If you are unsure, stop and double check before clicking or sending money.
How to Report Crime or Suspicious Activity
If you experience a scam, believe you have been targeted, or see suspicious behaviour, please report it. Reporting helps protect the entire community.
You can report through the Edmonton Police Service, the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre, or use the numbers listed in our Edmonton Neighbourhood Watch resource.
Even small pieces of information can help prevent further victimization.
Help Protect Your Community
Please share this with family, neighbours, and anyone who might be more vulnerable to scams. A quick warning can prevent someone from losing thousands of dollars or their identity.
Stay safe
Stay alert.
And enjoy a peaceful, scam free holiday season.
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