Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are urging internet surfers to be more vigilant after a local resident reported being phished.
On Wednesday afternoon, officers from the Tecumseh detachment responded to a complaint about a phishing scam.
The victim told police that they had received email messages touting investment opportunities. The messages were linked to a website, where the victim entered their banking and personal information. Instructions were also provided on how to send cryptocurrency.
Phishing consists of emails, texts, or phone calls that claim to be from a real organization. They try to fool the recipient into clicking on a link, entering personal information, or downloading an attachment.
"Fraudsters often impersonate trusted organizations to deceive the public," read a media release from the OPP. "Common examples include the CRA, ServiceOntario, utility providers, and cell phone companies. Others may claim you owe fees, such as a 407 ETR toll or an overdue parking ticket-even if you haven't used the highway in ages or have no outstanding violations."
Some links may release dangerous viruses that may destroy your computer or IT system.
The OPP say that no legitimate company or organization will ever ask you for your information via email or text. You should immediately delete any communication from anyone you don't know, and delete any messages with weird links, which may contain viruses.
Police also recommend not replying to spam messages, even to unsubscribe. Do not open any unfamiliar attachments or follow links, and ensure that any antivirus software is fully updated.
If a suspicious email contains a phone number or email address, the OPP suggest not calling it or replying to it. Go to verified websites to find the correct contact information.
If you believe you've been a victim of a phishing attack, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. If it's an emergency, call 911.
