Title: Beware of Elaborate Scam Targeting Nova Scotia Power Customers
In a recent deceitful ploy, West Hants resident Drew Kaulback fell victim to a sophisticated scam when attempting to pay his Nova Scotia Power bill. When Kaulback searched for the utility’s phone number online, a toll-free number appeared as the top result. Little did he know, this seemingly legitimate number turned out to be a sponsored link for a deceptive scam operation.
Upon calling the fraudulent number, Kaulback was prompted to provide personal information such as his account number and birthdate. The scammer even accurately provided details regarding Kaulback’s previous bill, leaving him convinced of the scammer’s false legitimacy. Despite initially planning to pay by credit card, Kaulback’s bank stepped in to intercept the payment, preventing a substantial loss.
The incident sheds light on the increasing prevalence of fraudulent websites and phone numbers targeting Nova Scotia Power customers. Casey Spears of Nova Scotia Power emphasized the utility’s efforts to combat such scams, though the dynamic and swift nature of these operations pose a continual challenge.
Jeff Horncastle from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre cautioned against the common tactic of scammers to sponsor their websites, elevating them in search results to lure unsuspecting victims. With scammers becoming more adept at creating convincing websites, Horncastle advised exercising caution and thorough verification before providing any personal information online.
Despite the ordeal, Kaulback remains vigilant, stating he is currently in “damage control mode” as he works to safeguard his accounts. His experience serves as a cautionary tale for others to remain wary of fraudulent schemes targeting utility customers.
As fraudsters continue to evolve their tactics, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed and exercise vigilance while navigating online transactions. If you encounter suspicious activity or wish to report fraudulent websites, resources such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre are available to assist in safeguarding against online scams.
In a recent deceitful ploy, West Hants resident Drew Kaulback fell victim to a sophisticated scam when attempting to pay his Nova Scotia Power bill. When Kaulback searched for the utility’s phone number online, a toll-free number appeared as the top result. Little did he know, this seemingly legitimate number turned out to be a sponsored link for a deceptive scam operation.
Upon calling the fraudulent number, Kaulback was prompted to provide personal information such as his account number and birthdate. The scammer even accurately provided details regarding Kaulback’s previous bill, leaving him convinced of the scammer’s false legitimacy. Despite initially planning to pay by credit card, Kaulback’s bank stepped in to intercept the payment, preventing a substantial loss.
The incident sheds light on the increasing prevalence of fraudulent websites and phone numbers targeting Nova Scotia Power customers. Casey Spears of Nova Scotia Power emphasized the utility’s efforts to combat such scams, though the dynamic and swift nature of these operations pose a continual challenge.
Jeff Horncastle from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre cautioned against the common tactic of scammers to sponsor their websites, elevating them in search results to lure unsuspecting victims. With scammers becoming more adept at creating convincing websites, Horncastle advised exercising caution and thorough verification before providing any personal information online.
Despite the ordeal, Kaulback remains vigilant, stating he is currently in “damage control mode” as he works to safeguard his accounts. His experience serves as a cautionary tale for others to remain wary of fraudulent schemes targeting utility customers.
As fraudsters continue to evolve their tactics, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed and exercise vigilance while navigating online transactions. If you encounter suspicious activity or wish to report fraudulent websites, resources such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre are available to assist in safeguarding against online scams.
