Stay Informed On The Latest Cyber Scams

Being aware of online scams and knowing what to look for is the key to protecting yourself against cybercriminals. Here are some cyber scams currently affecting AAR clients.

Cybercriminals are continuing to use COVID-19 themed messages to get personal information and commit fraud. Their tactics continue to evolve, with the latest phishing emails focused on emergency financial support, employment, and benefits programs, including the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) program, as well as requesting the purchase of prepaid gift cards / iTunes gift cards, etc.

What to look for:

Be on high alert for phishing emails<https://www.rbc.com/cyber-security/how-cyber-criminals-make-contact/index.html#look-out-for-email-scams> and phone/text messaging scams<https://www.rbc.com/cyber-security/how-cyber-criminals-make-contact/index.html#be-wary-of-phone-and-messaging-scams> related to COVID-19. Watch for any message that asks you to provide personal or financial information – for example, to claim money or apply for COVID-19 benefits. Be careful about clicking any links or attachments in emails, texts, messaging apps, or social media messages. It’s easy for attackers to fake email addresses or phone numbers to impersonate other people or organizations, like government agencies.

Do’s and Don’ts:

Do not accept or respond to any messages/emails/phone calls regarding the purchases of PREPAID CARDS / ITUNES CARDS / GIFT CARDS Do not provide your login details or pin/password of your banking information. When registering and claiming your COVID-related benefits, go directly to the official websites of authorities. Don’t click on links in emails or text messages or open attachments. Go directly to official websites by typing the address into your browser, or use a trusted search engine to find the official site. And always be wary when entering ANY personal or financial information online. Do use reliable information sources, such as government websites, when seeking information on financial relief related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Do be very careful about trusting emails or text messages, and who sent them. Look closely at the “from” email address and remember that it’s easy for attackers to forge emails or phone numbers to appear legitimate.