“No one deserves to be ripped off. Yet every day, swindlers look for new ways to take advantage of vulnerable Albertans. Whether it is a phone call, a text, an email or an online ad, fraudsters constantly adapt their tactics to exploit trust.
“For more than 20 years, Alberta’s government has recognized Fraud Prevention Month to raise awareness and give Albertans the tools they need to protect themselves. Education is our best defence. When people know what to look for, they are better able to recognize, reject and report fraud before it causes real harm.
“This year’s theme, Hidden Crime, highlights an important truth. Fraud is one of the most under-reported crimes, despite the serious financial and emotional toll it takes. As technology evolves, including artificial intelligence, scams are becoming more sophisticated. Staying informed and vigilant has never been more important.
“If you encounter a scam or any form of fraud, report it to your local police or to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. If you suspect a business has committed a scam or unfair practice, contact Alberta’s Consumer Investigations Unit (CIU) at 1-877-427-4088. The CIU reviews consumer complaints for compliance with consumer protection and tenancy laws, and assesses and investigates potential violations, including serious cases that may involve criminal offences, such as fraud.
“As fraud tactics continue to evolve, staying informed is one of the strongest defences we have. This Fraud Prevention Month, I encourage all Albertans to explore the resources available online, share information with friends and family, and take proactive steps to protect themselves.”