Central Saanich police are sending out a warning about ongoing fraud efforts entering homes via email.
The fraud originates from criminals who try to represent your banking institution via an unsolicited email requesting passwords and account information, explained Cpl. Janis Jean of the Central Saanich police.
“The emails can be very convincing and the suspects upload graphics of bank logos to make it appear legitimate,” she said, adding that often the email address or link will include a portion of the name of that bank.
Jean said the emails usually include a paragraph about online banking security and the bank’s efforts to improve it.
“This can give some people a false sense of security, (but) don’t be fooled,” she cautioned.
In the text of the emails criminals will often represent a banking situation or circumstance that prompts the reader’s immediate attention and response. The circumstances usually suggest there’s been a security breach in the account and will prompt the recipient to log in and enter their personal banking information.
“Once these criminals have that information your money will be gone,” Jean said.
The Central Saanich police are reminding everyone that no legitimate banking or lending institution will solicit any password or account information via email or telephone. If in doubt, contact your financial institution by phone and if you get suspicious emails simply delete them from your inbox.
– With files from the Central Saanich police