FROM: Elliot Lake RELEASE:15SEP2004

Internet Banking Scams

Over the past few weeks the Seniors Issues Office of the East Algoma OPP, Elliot Lake Detachment, has received numerous complaints regarding e-mails or mailings to individuals requesting personal banking information. A check with the OPP’s PhoneBusters in North Bay revealed that since February of this year they have also received numerous complaints regarding these types of incidents. Generally these requests were merely “fishing expeditions” whereby information is being sought about a person’s personal information, for example – name, date of birth, address, Social Insurance number, bank account information, including personal identification numbers (PIN).

Any such requests should be viewed as highly suspicious, as banking institutions do not request personal information concerning existing accounts in such fashions

In a recent e-mail a banks’ name and logo were used. The contents of the e-mail indicated that it was mandatory to respond to the e-mail that requested confirmation of banking details.

Should someone receive any requests similar in nature, persons are advised to contact their own local banking institution to verify the authenticity.

Both the Seniors Issues Office, the OPP and Phone Busters urge members of the public not to divulge information to senders of suspect requests.

Complaints should be directed to Phone Busters @ 888-495-8501.