Don’t fall for the COVID-19 phishing scams: How to stay safe

SURREY—The B.C. RCMP want residents across the province to stay safe from COVID-19 related phishing scams.

You may have received them before, an email from a bank or government agency with an enticing tag line, tempting you to open it, asking for personal information. The email may look official but it may have some slight irregularities such as colour, spelling/grammar mistakes, and even logo design flaws.

Some common email phishing scams include:

• Unemployment scams: You may have recently lost your job and received an email directing you to the unemployment website or new job opportunities. You may be prompted to provide your personal details.
• Donation Scams: Emails that appear to be from well-known charities or foundations that instruct you to make a donation to receive your FREE item.
• Health Care scam: This official appearing email alerts that you have been exposed to COVID-19 and guides you to confirm your personal health care and credit card information in order to receive your prescription.