Financial Crimes

FRAUD PREVENTION

COMMON TYPES OF FRAUD AND HOW TO PREVENT THEM

There are many types of fraud, with new ones invented regularly. Remaining cautious and aware is your best defense. It’s helpful to know that fraudsters use three powerful and effective things to get you to cooperate:

The hope of a benefit: “You’ve won a prize!” “This is a guaranteed investment!” “I love you!”

Fear: “You owe taxes.” “You will be arrested.” “Your loved one is in trouble.”

Your natural willingness to help: “Help us catch these crooked bank employees.” “Be our secret shopper.”

These are designed to manipulate your emotions, prevent you from thinking rationally, and make you take actions you normally would not.

Help us help you prevent fraud.

Breathe and Slow things down.

Does this make sense?

If it’s too good to be true it’s probably a scam!

Be rude – hang up, delete, don’t respond.

Take all the time you need.

Check in with two trusted other people ie. your bank, your family

OPTIONS TO REPORT FRAUD AND CYBERCRIME

ONLINE ANTI-FRAUD RESOURCES

There are numerous online resources to assist you with fraud awareness and prevention including:

Remember: The best defense to becoming a victim of a financial crime is to exercise due diligence. If you are unsure, seek assistance from any of the sources listed above or call the SPD at 475-4321.

PRINTABLE RESOURCES

Saanich Police summary on how you can Be Scammer Savvy – Beat the Fraudster

Dec 2023 – Scams of the Holidays

Mar 2023 – Scam Protection Poster

Feb 2023 – Romance Scams

Feb 2023 – Emergency / Grandparent Scams

Jan 2023 – Tech Support Fraud

Dec 2022 – Holiday Scams

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