Common scams to be aware of
Keeping your money safe and secure is one of our top priorities — and we want to help make it one of yours too. To help protect yourself from scams and fraud both online and offline, we’re sharing some of the common scams to watch out for:
Grandparent scams
A scammer calls or texts you pretending to be your grandchild or loved one, claiming they’re in crisis and in need of immediate funds. These scammers use AI to replicate the voice of your loved one to make it even more believable.
Romance scams
A scammer convinces you to enter a virtual, online relationship. As expert manipulators, they can quickly gain your trust and affection. Soon, your new ‘romantic partner’ shares multiple requests for help and financial support, and before you know it, you’ve drained your savings or gone into debt.
Phishing scams
A scammer calls, texts, emails or contacts you via social media, convincing you to click on a link to what appears to be a legitimate, trusted website or business. This scam may also include e-Transfer links for online buy-and-sell scams. Once you’ve clicked the link, the scammers gain access to your personal information — including your banking usernames and passwords.
How to protect yourself from these scams
The best way to defend against fraud is to identify a scam before you fall for it. This easy-to-follow guide shares some anti-fraud tips to help you protect yourself before you fall victim.
Don’t be afraid to say no
If a telemarketer tries to get you to buy something or asks you to send them money right away, request the information in writing or hang up the call.
Do your research
Always verify that the request and the organization you’re dealing with is legitimate before you take any action. If you’ve received a call or text saying that your family member is in trouble, contact the family member through another method to confirm the situation. Always search known scams if something does not seem right.
Don’t share personal information
If you didn’t initiate the contact or you don’t know who you’re talking to, don’t ever share any personal information such as your name, address, birth date, SIN, credit card or banking information.
Stop using public Wi-Fi
Accessing public Wi-Fi comes with serious security risks. Your private information may be leaked, or your money and financial information could be stolen.
Five ways to help protect your Coast Capital accounts
- Use caution before clicking any link
- Avoid accessing online banking via search engines
- Use the secure Coast Capital digital banking app
- Don’t approve unexpected security authentication emails and text messages
- Set up account activity alerts for all your banking and credit card providers, and be sure to take advantage of any available identity protection features such as ID Assist®.
Visit the staying secure section of our blog for more information on how you can protect yourself against fraud and scams.
Report any suspicious behaviour
Contact us directly at 1.888.517.7000 if you suspect fraudulent activity has occurred. We’ll provide you with support and guidance to help you file a report.
Your digital security matters to us
You work hard for your money, and we want to help protect it. We use innovative fraud prevention technology to help keep your accounts protected.
Learn more at coastcapitalsavings.com/cybersecurity
