REGINA, Sask. — October marks Cyber Security Awareness Month in Canada, and Conexus Credit Union is warning its members and the public that all generations are targeted by cybercrime.
"Unfortunately, scammers target and defraud every age group in our province. It is a misconception that scammers only defraud the senior citizen generation," explains Conexus Chief Risk and Compliance Officer Mark Millham.
"Just five to 10 per cent of scams are ever reported. We encourage everyone to brush up on cybersecurity best practices and to know that they can come forward to the police and to their financial institution to report scams."
Current trending cyber scams the Saskatchewan public should be familiar with include:
- Investment scams: Watch out for promised returns that seem too good to be true. Scammers may even send some money back as a “return” or “dividend” to gain further trust as well as more of the victim’s money. Learn more.
- Verification code scams: Did you receive a one-time passcode you did not request? It’s time to be on high alert. Never share any one-time passcodes with anyone. Once scammers gain the one-time passcode, they can take control of your account and commit fraud. Learn more.
- Overpayments scams: A fraudster buys a listed item. They then claim they accidentally sent too much money above the agreed price. They ask the seller to refund the difference. Later, the original payment is deemed to be fraudulent, leaving the seller with neither the product nor their money. Never send funds back. Instead, contact your financial institution right away. Learn more.
How to protect yourself
Conexus encourages members and the public to visit the Government of Canada's Cyber Security Awareness Month resources and the #StandAgainstScams website.
Cybercrime is always evolving. Here are some tips to protect yourself:
- The three R’s: Protect yourself by recognizing what different scams look like and when someone is trying to fool you; rejecting the scam and not giving in to fraudsters; and reporting activity you suspect could be fraud or if you believe you or a loved one is a victim of fraud.
- Does something feel off? Trust your gut. Stop by your branch to verify information or hang up and dial your contact centre. For example, Conexus does not offer loan applications or will kits through social media.
- Safeguard your banking credentials: Never enter your banking credentials anywhere except the Conexus, Cornerstone, or Synergy Digital Banking Platforms. Download the app or bookmark conexus.ca, cornerstonecu.com, or synergycu.ca. Do not input your information into any link someone has sent you.
- Passwords: Create strong passwords and never reuse a password.
- Set up alerts: Real-time alerts are a great way to continuously monitor account activity and stop fraud in its tracks.
- Be hypervigilant: Fraudsters are hunting for your banking credentials. They will manipulate so victims lower their guard. Watch out for pressure tactics, attempts to circumvent transaction processes, and avoid clicking links.
Conexus, Cornerstone, or Synergy members who believe they may have been the victim of fraud or who encounter any fraudulent activity should contact their credit union and report the incident right away. Here are the links make these reports at Conexus, Cornerstone and Synergy.
