In this Virtual Information Session, representatives from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency, and the Bank of Canada provide an overview of the top scams affecting British Columbian residents, especially in the time of COVID-19.

Every year, thousands of Canadians fall victim to fraud. Fraudsters are quick to adapt their techniques to the latest trends and technologies, using a variety of tactics to defraud their targets. In the first eight months of 2021 alone, British Columbians reported losses of $3.5 million from crypto investment scams. Fraudsters are quick to capitalize on global events. During the COVID-19 pandemic, new scams emerged. For example, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre received reports of a text message scam tied to COVID-19 vaccine invitation notifications.

As newcomers are especially vulnerable to fraud, it is essential for frontline settlement workers to be aware of existing scams and to know how to inform their clients to help protect them. This session includes an overview of the top frauds newcomers should be aware of and how criminals are contacting victims, information on common immigration and customs fraud schemes, and guidance on how to support and protect newcomer clients. 

Access the Virtual Information Session by clicking here.