Fraud and scams don’t just happen to “other people.” They can happen to anyone.

From January 1 to January 31, Cranbrook RCMP responded to 15 reports of fraud.

Scammers are professionals, they use pressure and emotion and constantly change their tactics. Everyone is a target, and being a victim is nothing to be ashamed of.

A few simple steps can greatly reduce your risk:

• Pause before you act. Scammers rely on urgency and fear. Take a moment to slow things down.
• Verify independently. Don’t trust contact details provided in a message, look up phone numbers or websites yourself.
• Protect personal information. Never share passwords, PINs, one-time codes, or banking details.
• Be cautious with links and attachments. Even if a message looks legitimate, think twice before clicking.
• Talk it through. If something feels off, run it by a trusted friend, family member, or colleague.

If you’ve been targeted or victimized, you’re not alone. Reporting scams also helps protect others in the community.

Let’s look out for each other. Awareness, kindness, and conversation are powerful tools in preventing fraud.

Cranbrook RCMP photo

Cranbrook RCMP/Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

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