Scam Alerts: Local, Online and more

With the Canada Post strike and the holiday shopping season underway, Canadians are facing a fresh wave of scams, particularly delivery scams, as fraudsters take advantage of the situation to trick people into parting with their money.

Here’s how these scams work and how you can protect yourself:

How the Scams Work:

1. Phishing Emails or Texts: Scammers often send fake emails or text messages claiming to be from Canada Post or another delivery service. They might tell you there’s an issue with your delivery or that customs fees are due. The message will typically include a link to a fake website where you’ll be asked to enter personal information, like credit card details or your address.
2. Fake Delivery Notices: Another common scam involves receiving a fake delivery notice, either in the mail or digitally. These notices might claim that a package couldn’t be delivered and that you need to pay a fee to have it rescheduled or released. Some even create a sense of urgency by stating that your package will be returned or destroyed if you don’t act quickly.
3. Fake Tracking Links: Fraudsters may also provide fake tracking numbers that lead to a fraudulent website. The website might look like an official delivery site, but it’s designed to steal personal information or install malware on your device.

How to Identify Bad Actors:

• Check the Source: Official communications from Canada Post will always come from an official domain (e.g., “@canadapost.ca”). Be wary of messages from unfamiliar email addresses or numbers.
• Look for Red Flags: Watch for urgent messages that ask for personal details or payments. Legitimate companies will never ask you to pay for services through strange or untraceable methods (like wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards).
• Spelling and Grammar: Scammers often make mistakes in spelling, grammar, and formatting. Official communications are usually professionally written.
• Verify Tracking Information: If you receive an email or message with a tracking number, double-check it on the official Canada Post website by entering it directly. Don’t click on any links in the message.

How to Protect Yourself:

1. Do Not Click on Links: Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails, texts, or messages, especially those asking for personal information or payment.
2. Verify Contact Information: If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from Canada Post, contact their customer service directly using official contact details to verify the legitimacy of the message.
3. Use Secure Payment Methods: Never provide payment details through unsecured channels. Always use secure payment methods and look for HTTPS in the URL before entering any personal information online.
4. Report Scams: If you’ve been targeted by a scam or have received suspicious communications, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) or the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).

With the rise in scams during busy seasons like the holidays, being vigilant and cautious is crucial to avoid falling victim to fraud.

Learn more about the scams here.