News release

Click with caution: how to avoid becoming a scammer’s new target

March 25, 2026 - Edmonton, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

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Edmonton – This March, the Alberta RCMP will be sharing a variety of tips and resources in support of the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association’s (ACCPA) Fraud Prevention Month campaign. The campaign seeks to educate Albertans on the many ways that fraudulent activity negatively impacts their communities.

Today’s theme is online scams and fraud, which may include any of the following:

• Romance scams
• Phishing emails
• Job scams
• Buy and sell fraud
• Lottery and prize scams
• Tech repair scams
• Impersonation scams

“Stay sharp online. Any unexpected message, link, or request should raise your guard. Scammers rely on urgency, emotion, and impersonation to make people act fast. Always remember to slow down, double-check things on your own, and trust your instincts when something feels off. A little skepticism goes a long way in keeping you safe.”

• Cpl. Sean Milne, Provincial Financial Crime Team, RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region

To better protect yourself, consider the following resources:

• Learn the seven red flags associated to phishing
• Learn how to spot a legitimate job opportunity
• Understand phishing and how to stay safe

If you are unsure of whether or not you are being targeted by a scam, visit the Government of Canada’s website to learn about common scam types. If you have been the victim of fraud, report it to your local law enforcement agency and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre.ca, or by calling 1-888-495-8501. Be sure to contact your bank and credit card company if you believe your personal or financial information has been compromised.

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