(SHUTTERSTOCK)
Winnipeg police have put out a public warning after an increased number of reports of telephone scams.
Police say people are receiving calls advising their social insurance number has been compromised. The recording directs them to call back immediately to avoid being arrested. The callers are then asked to confirm their social insurance number by the fraudster.
“Members of the public are reminded that fraudsters will try to obtain your personal information with the intention of committing future crimes,” police said in a statement. “They are often very aggressive and will resort to suggesting the police are already involved or will become involved if the victim does not comply with the request for information.”
Police have some simple tips to remember:
- Never give out personal information such as account numbers, SINs, passwords, or other identifying information in response to unexpected calls.
- The Canada Revenue Agency has your identity information and does not use the phone to solicit it.
- Police agencies and investigators would not solicit this information over the phone.
- If you get a call from someone who says they represent a legitimate company or a government agency and are seeking personal information, hang up and call the government agency, financial institution or police service to confirm the authenticity of the call.
Updated information on current scams and frauds can be found on the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
