Incidents of e-transfer fraud continue to target Canadians over the phone, via text messages, emails, and in person. Our industry is not immune to this and Brokerages are also dealing with this type of fraud.
Be aware of how you can spot e-transfer fraud and protect yourself by: - Creating strong security questions and passwords;
- Contacting the person who sent the request or transfer to establish its authenticity before acting;
- Avoid clicking on phishing links; and
- Report fraudulent activity to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Read on for more information on e-transfer fraud and how you can protect yourself.
Sending an E-Transfer
Firstly, e-transfer fraud occurs when a third party is able to intercept an email money transfer and correctly guess or obtain the password.
It is also important to note that once the recipient has deposited the funds, the e-transfer transaction cannot be reversed. Therefore, exercise caution and always send an e-transfer to someone you know and trust.
Security Questions & Passwords
If you are sending an e-transfer, banks provide important tips that could help you protect yourself.
Bank providers recommend using an effective security question and answer that isn't easily guessable, and is known only to the sender and the recipient. Senders should not include the password in the message that accompanies the transfer, or send it by email to the recipient.
You may also want to avoid reusing the same security question and answer for multiple recipients.
Receiving an E-Transfer
If you are expecting an e-transfer from someone, you may find it helpful to contact the person who sent the request or transfer to establish its authenticity before acting.
Interac also recommends:
"If you receive an Interac e-transfer text or email you weren't expecting, confirm with the sender via another channel. If the email or text comes from someone you don't know, or you suspect it to be fraudulent, don't respond or click any links. Forward the email right away to "phishing@interac.ca."
Phishing Links
It is advised by Interac to avoid clicking on phishing links that lead you to sign into your email or your online banking. If you receive an email or text message from a vendor you weren't expecting that prompts you to log into your online banking or accept funds through an online money transfer, do not click on the link.
In addition, fraudsters go to great lengths to try to legitimize phishing attempts, using company logos, and sometimes using Interac logos.
You may also recognize typos or unusual text, which will allow you to flag fraudulent activity. For example, Interac's report indicates a common error in phishing emails is the "$" sign appearing after the amount, instead of before it.
Looking for More Information?
Visit the dedicated Interac website on how you can protect yourself from e-transfer fraud here.
Interac has also developed the following reports with helpful tips:
You can also visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to report fraudulent activity here.
Regards,
AYESHA KHALID Realtor Multi-Award Winner Bronze Award (2019) HOMELIFE/MIRACLE REALTY LTD, BROKERAGE Dir: 647-405-3722 Office: 905-455-5100
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