No one wants to hand over their hard-earned cash to a criminal, but scammers continue to find sneaky ways to get people to part from their money. Scams can prey on our fears or exploit our good intentions — and leave us feeling helpless, angry and embarrassed.
With the new year approaching, we’re getting a look at what scams made the rounds in Canada last year. Experts warn to watch out for these top offenders well into 2012.
Computer virus scam
It’s been popular in Europe for a while, but took off here in 2011. Here’s how it works: You get a call supposedly from a reputable company (like “Microsoft” or “Windows”) warning the company has received a virus notification or error message from your computer. Don’t worry: the “helpful” caller can fix the problem for you — first they’ll want access to your computer, then they’ll want a fee — charged to your credit card, naturally. He or she might also try to sell you an anti-virus software subscription that you’ll pay for every month.
Experts say don’t be alarmed if you receive one of these calls — just hang up. Reputable companies don’t make such calls, and you should be suspicious of anyone asking for access to your computer or your credit card information. If you think you’ve been a victim, police recommend calling your credit card company to get the charges reversed.
Fake prizes or lotteries
Congratulations! You’re a winner in a contest you don’t remember entering. In order to claim your prize or free gift, you’ll need to pay a fee, pay the taxes or make a purchase. Too bad your prize never comes.
Experts say these scams aren’t new, but they are branching out. Sometimes they can start with a survey or entry box at the mall or an entry form you submit in the mail. You think you’ve entered a contest but what you actually did was give scammers your contact information — and a credible reason to call.
How can you protect yourself? Be very careful to whom you give your information, and remember that you should never have to spend money or make a purchase to claim a prize.
Fake cheque scams
Oops! Your interested buyer or potential tenant mistakenly wrote you a cheque for too much money. Now he or she wants you to cash it and wire them the difference. Unfortunately, your money will be long gone by the time the cheque bounces. The scammer could have a clever cover story — like claiming to be an international student coming to Canada looking for a room to rent.
These scams have topped the list for a couple of years now, and experts warn they will continue to hit business owners and landlords alike. Be aware of this scam if you’re selling or renting — especially if you’re advertising online — and make it a point to only conduct business in person. Try to avoid taking cheques, if possible. (Read more about suspicious cheques.)
