WATCH ABOVE: Edmonton police want to make sure you have the tools to protect yourself against fraud. Lisa Wolansky has the details.
EDMONTON — Edmonton police are on a information blitz on what residents can do to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
The initiative by police signifies the start of Fraud Prevention Month in Edmonton.
“We want the public to know that there is help available, not only to prevent these crimes but to investigate them, and there are mechanisms in place to seek compensation in some situations. Fraud awareness is ongoing – we need to recognize it, report it, and stop it,” said Staff Sgt. Dan Service, EPS Economic Crimes Section.
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There has been an increase in reported frauds in the city, according to Edmonton police, yet police still believe economic crimes are underreported.
During March police will be highlighting common frauds such as romance and grandparent scams, homeowner, renovation and mortgage crimes, and email and online schemes.
“You’ll steal far more money with a briefcase than you ever will with a gun, and people end up in some cases losing their entire to fraudsters and scammers,” said Service.
Police are partnering with numerous organizations during Fraud Prevention Month including the Alberta government, RCMP K Division, and Better Business Bureau.
“It’s important to know that we’re all vulnerable and fraudsters just recraft their message for whatever your specific interests are or vulnerabilities,” explained Victor Hammill, Competition Bureau.
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Information about fraud awareness is available online from Service Alberta, the Competition Bureau, and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, including the Little Black Book of Scams.