As cybercriminals become increasingly sophisticated in their methods, protecting personal and financial information online has become more important. From phishing scams to identity theft, digital threats are on the rise, but proactive measures can reduce the risk of falling victim.
St. Paul RCMP is urging Albertans to stay vigilant and has shared advice on how to safeguard against these threats.
Cybercriminals often use tactics such as phishing, where unsolicited emails, text messages, or social media communications attempt to trick people into revealing personal or financial information. These messages can appear to be from legitimate sources but are designed to steal sensitive data. Scammers create fake websites that mimic official ones, aiming to collect information from unsuspecting users. Verifying the authenticity of a website, ensuring it uses a secure connection (“https”), is an important precaution.
A common method involves malicious links or attachments that may carry malware or viruses. The RCMP advises residents to avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or unverified sources. Monitoring online accounts for unusual activity, such as unauthorized transactions or unexpected password changes, is also key to catching potential threats early. Fake job offers and high-return investment schemes are other scams to watch for these often promise unrealistic benefits or require upfront payments.
To minimize risks, creating strong and unique passwords for all accounts is essential. Passwords should avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdates or names, and a password manager can help store them securely. Regularly updating operating systems. Antivirus software, and apps can protect against security vulnerabilities, while checking back accounts and online profiles for suspicious activity is another vital habit. Public Wi-Fi networks, which are often insecure, should not be used for sensitive tasks like online banking or accessing email.
The RCMP also recommends backing up important files to external storage or secure cloud services, which can protect against data loss in the event of a ransomware attack. Staying informed about the latest cyber threats and scams is one of the best defenses against becoming a victim.
If you suspect you have been targeted or victimized by cybercrime, reporting it promptly is crucial. Residents are encouraged to contact their local RCMP detachment or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
“We are encouraging our community to protect their information online. Don’t release any information that would be considered sensitive. Let’s keep our community safe,” said Staff Sergeant Dennis Silliker.
