The Alberta RCMP has kicked off Fraud Prevention Month, aiming to educate the public on recognizing and avoiding common scams. The campaign highlights several types of fraud that continue to target Albertans, including relationship scams, investment schemes, online fraud, and phone scams.
Relationship scams, such as romance scams and grandparent scams, are designed to exploit emotional connections. The RCMP warns residents never to send money to people they’ve met only online.
Investment scams remain a significant threat, with fraudsters using social media, Ponzi schemes, and cryptocurrency tactics to lure victims. To stay safe, Albertans are advised to seek advice from independent professionals or legal experts before making financial decisions. Resources like the Alberta Securities Commission’s Checkfirst.ca can help identify warning signs.
Online scams continue to grow, including phishing emails, job fraud, and fake tech repair services. The RCMP urges caution when sharing personal information and reminds consumers that if something seems too good to be true, it likely is.
For phone scams, fraudsters often impersonate organizations such as the Canada Revenue Agency. The RCMP advises residents never to provide personal information to unknown callers and to contact businesses directly if in doubt.
Anyone targeted by fraud should report it to their local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
