Financial Scams & Online Threats

We wanted to send out a reminder about online security as we have had a few clients report phishing emails that appear to be coming from Shannon. We can assure you these emails are not coming from Shannon’s email address. She has not been hacked and your information is completely secure. You should delete and not open any suspicious emails. Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their tactics.

Common Scams to Watch Out For:

• Email Scams: Scammers often send emails posing as banks, investment firms, government agencies, or friends/family asking you to click on links or provide personal details. Always verify the sender’s email address and avoid clicking on suspicious links.

• Phone Scams: Fraudsters may call pretending to be from a bank or financial institution, claiming there’s an issue with your account. They may request personal details or ask you to transfer funds. If in doubt, hang up and call the institution directly using a verified number.

• Text Message Scams: Be wary of text messages that contain urgent requests or links to “update your account” or claim a refund. Legitimate institutions will never ask for sensitive information via text.

• Social Media Scams: Scammers often create fake profiles to impersonate your family, friends, or legitimate companies to lure you into sending money or gift cards, fake giveaways, or phishing attempts.

• Investment Scams: If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of unsolicited investment opportunities promising high returns with little to no risk.

  
  

How to Stay Secure:

• Verify Before You Trust: Always double-check requests for financial or personal information, even if they appear to come from a legitimate source.

• Use Strong Passwords & Two-Factor Authentication: Strengthen your accounts with unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where possible.

• Monitor Your Accounts Regularly: Keep an eye on your accounts for any unauthorized transactions.

• Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect fraud, report it immediately to your financial institution and relevant authorities.

  
  

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

This information has been prepared by Shannon Straathof who is an Investment Advisor for IA Private Wealth® and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of IA Private Wealth. The information contained in this newsletter comes from sources we believe reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any of the securities mentioned. The information contained herein may not apply to all types of investors. The Investment Advisor can open accounts only in the provinces in which they are registered. IA Private Wealth® is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization.