During the holiday season, consumers need to be extra cautious as scammers are known to prey on the most vulnerable during this time. In Alberta, the RCMP has reported higher instances of credit card fraud in the lead-up to the holidays, with over 8,500 reports of fraud in 2023. Cybersecurity analyst Ritesh Kotak warns that scams are not only on the rise but are becoming more sophisticated, thanks to artificial intelligence. Scammers are now able to create emails and messages that look legitimate, making it harder for consumers to spot the fraudulent activity. With the Canada Post strike potentially affecting deliveries, consumers need to be vigilant when receiving emails related to tracking packages, as they could be phishing scams.
Kotak recommends that shoppers be cautious of ‘phishing’ and text-related scams, especially those related to tracking packages. He advises consumers to only buy from reputable sources, avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions, use multi-factor authentication whenever possible, change passwords frequently, and clarify the legitimacy of verification emails to avoid falling for phishing scams. Additionally, consumers should regularly check their accounts and review transactions to ensure their information has not been compromised. Kotak also suggests looking for a padlock symbol on websites when making purchases online, as it indicates that the site is secure and transactions will be encrypted.
For online shoppers, Kotak suggests using a separate email address for online transactions to separate them from personal emails in case of a breach. He also recommends using credit cards instead of e-transfers for purchases, as credit cards offer additional security measures and insurance in case of fraud. If consumers believe they have fallen victim to a scam, the RCMP urges them to report it to the police and contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to help combat fraudulent activities. By reporting scams, authorities can better understand the extent of the problem and work towards preventing future instances of fraud during the holiday season.
As the holiday season approaches, consumers need to be aware of the increased risk of falling victim to fraudulent activities. With Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas shopping in full swing, scammers are actively trying to steal personal information and financial details from unsuspecting individuals. In 2023, the Alberta RCMP received over 8,500 reports of fraud, with a significant portion of those reports being related to unauthorized use of credit card information. With the rise of artificial intelligence, scammers are now able to create sophisticated and convincing emails that can trick consumers into sharing their personal information.
To protect themselves from falling victim to scams, consumers should follow the advice of experts like Ritesh Kotak, a cybersecurity analyst. By being cautious of phishing and text-related scams, only purchasing from reputable sources, avoiding public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions, using multi-factor authentication, changing passwords frequently, and verifying the legitimacy of emails, shoppers can reduce their risk of being scammed. Additionally, looking for secure symbols on websites, using separate email addresses for online transactions, and using credit cards instead of e-transfers can also help enhance security measures for online purchases. By taking these precautions, consumers can safeguard their personal information and financial details during the busy holiday season.
In the event that consumers do become victims of scams, it is important to report the fraudulent activity to law enforcement and the appropriate authorities, such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. By reporting scams, authorities can take action to prevent further instances of fraud and protect other potential victims. In conclusion, being vigilant, cautious, and proactive can help consumers navigate the holiday shopping season safely and securely, ensuring that their personal information and finances are protected from scammers and fraudulent activities.
