Scam Alert: Social Media Business Account Spoofing
Recent reporting to the Canada Anti Fraud Centre has identified that business social media accounts are increasingly being spoofed by fraudsters. With the cloned or imposter accounts, fraudsters can target clients and employers with fraudulent messages and offers. For instance, they can send messages to existing clients (identified on the legitimate company’s profile) and make claims they have won a free giveaway or content. In order to collect their winnings, potential victims are required to provide their credit card information.
Warning Signs
- Reporting from clients or employees about messages you did not send or post.
- Unusual requests or messages from clients and employees.
- Unusual messages from clients about how to claim a prize.
Top Tips to Protect Business
- Secure your social media accounts. Understand the terms of service for the social media platforms being used.
- Get “verified” on social media. “Verified” accounts provide a level of authenticity and credibility.
- Routinely monitor your social media accounts for unusual post and messages.
- Think about the information you share. Can it be used to create imposter accounts or solicit your clients and employees with fraudulent requests or offers?
- Routinely monitor your social media platforms for imposter accounts.
- Provide clear instructions or details on any promotions, contests or giveaways.
- Provide fraud awareness messaging to clients and employees.
- Post warnings if, and when, spoof accounts are identified and report them to the platform.
If you think you or someone you know has been the victim of fraud, please contact the Canada Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501, report online at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca, or contact our Risk Management Department at 1-866-554-3456.
