Here are the five most common text message scams

In recent years, text message fraud has spread like wildfire because Quebecers often have their phones on them at all hours of the day and night. Thieves compete in ingenuity to find ways to deceive people in every way imaginable.

• Read also: More than $3.5 million stolen in text message fraud: “There is a lack of maturity in the banking system”

• Read also: Victim of a text scam: “I want the Royal Bank to refund my $10,000”

Five text scams widespread this year

1. Employment: 10 victims ($85,256 lost)
2. Investments: 2 victims ($31,090 lost)
3. Bank investigator: 2 victims ($28,868 lost)
4. Merchandise: 1 victim ($24,000 lost)
5. Extortion: 4 victims ($11,200 lost)

(Source: Canadian Anti-Fraud Center, Quebec data from 1^er January 2024 to March 31, 2024)

Five popular text scams last year

1. Employment: 20 victims ($893,041.67 lost)
2. Investments: 8 victims ($529,473 lost)
3. Lovers: 4 victims ($203,000 lost)
4. Bank investigator: 3 victims ($25,302.30 lost)
5. Merchandise: 6 victims ($13,694.90 lost)

(Source: Canadian Anti-Fraud Center, Quebec data 2023)

Five types of fraud on the rise

Job

These frauds are exploding, warns the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center (CAFC). These are often fake jobs paid in cryptocurrency. Scammers use real company names to “promote” products, apps, or videos using software they created. After installing the software and creating an account, victims receive “commands” or “tasks” to complete.

Investments

These are “money recovery schemes following fraudulent investment offers” which are at issue. Fraudsters swear that victims will be able to get their lost money back. They charge for fake services. “In some cases, they ask victims to have remote access to their computer or device. In the end, they do not receive funds and other sums could be stolen from them.

Bank investigator

Some fraudsters have the nerve to pose as an employee of the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center (CAFC). They say they are investigating to find the money. “The suspects are using the CAFC letterhead and logo. Remember that the CAFC and the police will never ask you to transfer funds or make a payment. If in doubt, contact the nearest police department or the CAFC.

Merchandise

Show tickets, puppies, electronic equipment, clothing, housing, cottages, motor vehicles… scammers use classified ad sites, resale sites, pop-ups on websites, fake business websites to trap his victims. “Fraudsters also use QR codes to steal personal information and money. These codes, like hyperlinks and URL addresses, are inserted into emails and texts.

(Source: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre)