WINNIPEG, MB. - March is Fraud Prevention Month, and throughout the month the Financial Crimes Unit will be focusing our efforts on combating extortion scams – through investigation and enforcement as well as education and awareness. In 2020, Manitobans lost over $4.4 million through mass market scams. This includes $1.9 million lost through extortion scams. Extortion scams were the most reported scams and they were the most profitable for fraudsters not only in Manitoba, but in all of Canada. To help raise awareness, we have prepared a video detailing what extortion scams are, the most common ones, and how Manitobans can protect themselves from falling victim to these scams. Extortion Scams video If you or someone you know has been a victim to an Extortion Scam, please contact both the Winnipeg Police Service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to file a report. Virtual event series The Winnipeg Police Service will be participating in a number of events to help educate citizens on how they can protect themselves from fraud. However unlike in years past, all of these events will be held virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These virtual events include:
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s Canada-Wide Fraud Prevention Month Launch
Tuesday March 2, 2021 from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Information specific to Manitoba being presented at 1 p.m.
Connect with the Anti-Fraud Centre’s social pages at:
Twitter: @canantifraud
Facebook: @canantifraud
Facebook Live Event: Protect Yourself from Scams
Wednesday March 10, 2021 at 6 p.m.
Facebook: @wpgpoliceofficial
We will discuss the most popular types of mass market scams in Manitoba, including a special section dedicated to seniors.
Facebook Live Event – MoneySmart Manitoba’s Protecting You Family from Fraud
Thursday March 18, 2021 from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m.
MoneySmart Manitoba: @moneysmartmanitoba
Winnipeg Police Service: @wpgpoliceofficial
Senior Investigator Jason Roy with the Securities Commissions and Det. Mike Streilein of the Financial Crimes Unit will discuss recognizing and avoiding financial fraud.
Facebook Live Event: Fighting Fraud: Advice for Individuals New to Canada
Tuesday March 23, 2021 starting at 6 p.m.
Winnipeg Police Service: @wpgpoliceofficial
We will discuss the most popular types of mass market scams in Manitoba which are focused on victimizing individuals new to Canada including foreign students.
Watch for the hashtag #FPM2021 on social media for fraud prevention information from agencies across Canada throughout the month. We all have a role to play in fraud prevention.