This March, the Alberta RCMP will be sharing information and resources in support of the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association's (ACCPA) Fraud Prevention Month campaign. The campaign, which will include a weekly theme, seeks to educate Albertans on the many ways that fraudulent activity impacts their communities.
This week's theme focuses on investment scams, which includes, but is not limited to:
- Investment fraud via social media;
- Ponzi or pyramid schemes;
- Cryptocurrency scams;
- Real estate investment scams; and,
- Offshore investment schemes.
How can you better protect yourself from these types of scams? Here are some helpful resources from the Alberta Securities Commission (ASC):
- Learn more about common cryptocurrency investment scams and the red flags of fraud;
- Learn about the types of investment scams carried out in-person, over the phone or online; and,
- Consult with the Alberta Securities Commission's Alberta-based registrant list and their investment caution list.
"When it comes to investing, you should always be skeptical of unsolicited investment opportunities or pressure tactics from a stranger. Take the time to thoroughly research the legitimacy of the investment, ask questions, and check the registration of the individual or firm by visiting CheckFirst.ca – which is brought to you by the Alberta Securities Commission. Generally, anyone offering investments or investment advice to Albertans should be registered with the ASC."
- Cpl. Sean Milne, Alberta RCMP Provincial Financial Crime Team
If you are suspicious about an investment that has been offered to you or feel that you or someone you know is the victim of investment fraud, please report it to your located law enforcement agency and the Alberta Securities Commission at 1-403-355-3888. Instances of compromised personal and/or financial information should be reported to your bank and credit card company. To learn more about the various types of frauds and scams, please visit the CAFC's scam webpage.
For more fraud prevention information and resources, follow us on Facebook and X.