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Stay alert of common COVID-19 scams, says RCMP

The RCMP is warning people to stay alert and aware of COVID-19 scams that are still lingering about as the province begins to re-open after the pandemic.
Cell phone scam
Image: Pixabay

The RCMP is warning people to stay alert and aware of COVID-19 scams that are still lingering about as the province begins to re-open after the pandemic.

COVID-19-related scams include fraudsters defrauding people through CERB applications; door-to-door sales offers; return to work strategies and others.

Fraudsters commonly offer assistant in completing applications for a small fee, which results in them obtaining personal information, Social Insurance Number and financial information.

According to the RCMP, fraudsters will use the information to impersonate others, open bank accounts, and may apply for CERB benefits for themselves.

“It is important to remain vigilant about who you are providing your personal information to and remember it does not cost money to apply for CERB,” said the RCMP in a media statement.

Tips to protect from common frauds include:

  • Do not provide personal or financial information to unsolicited companies or people
  • Do not pay for an employment opportunity or start-up costs
  • Do consult with family, friends or a professional when seeking out services or completing online applications
  • CERB benefit applications do not cost anything
  • Research company phone numbers of people performing door-to-door sales.
  • Be aware of “get rich quick” schemes.

Victims of fraud are asked to call their local police to report the incident.

People who have information regarding scams or frauds are to report them to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at info@antifraudcentre.ca