12 calls were made to the Nanaimo RCMP about a new scam circulating in the community. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

texter beware

New COVID-19 scam unfortunately traps several Nanaimo residents

Apr 9, 2020 | 1:22 PM

NANAIMO — A minor tweak to a COVID-19 text scam making the rounds.

Nanaimo RCMP Cst. Gary O’Brien said the local detachment received 12 calls on Thursday, April 9 about the scam.

He explained it’s a variation on a text-based scam which began several weeks ago. It capitalizes on both the COVID-19 pandemic and confusing political language by referencing the many relief funds and benefits being announced.

People are receiving texts with a link to claim money provided by the Canadian government during the pandemic. The fake website asks for people’s name and SIN.

O’Brien said unfortunately some people did enter their information and fell prey to the scam.

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“Ignore the text, it’s not how the government will be in contact with you.”

He urged anyone who received the text and did enter their info to immediately call Equifax to notify authorities to watch their account.

“When we receive 12 calls, we know there’s dozens of other people who have received this text, because they’re sent out en masse.”

In addition to reporting crimes of fraud to their local police detachment, victims are also encouraged to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by clicking here.

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