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NEWS RELEASE

West Lincoln Anti-Fraud Seminar Seeks to Safeguard Seniors

For Immediate Release: April 17, 2023

The Township of West Lincoln’s Age Friendly Advisory Committee is hosting a free event aimed at arming the community with knowledge and tips to protect themselves against fraud, particularly fraud targeted at seniors.

The Fraud Awareness seminar will take place on Friday, May 12, 2023, at 9:30 a.m., in the second floor program room of the West Lincoln Community Centre, at 177 West St., in Smithville.

Special guest speaker Tom Cheel, from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, will speak about identity theft, mass marketing fraud, how to recognize and report fraud, and the most current scams in circulation, including:

  • Investment Scams
  • Emergency Scams (Grandparents Scams)
  • Romance Scams
  • Extortion (CRA) Scams
  • Service Scams
  • Prize and Lottery Scams
  • And more

Time will be allotted for attendees to ask questions. Coffee, tea and light refreshments will be provided. Event details are subject to change. Visit the Fraud Awareness Event Page for the most up-to-date information.

For notifications and important updates, remember to follow the Township of West Lincoln on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @TWPWestLincoln.

Quotes:

“The number of fraud attempts in Niagara seems to have increased in recent years, particularly those targeted at our older population. It is heartbreaking to see members of our community being taken advantage of. Please join myself and the other members of West Lincoln’s Age-Friendly Advisory Committee at our free event, and arm yourself with the knowledge and power to prevent these horrible crimes.”

Cheryl Ganann

Mayor

 

“Last year, the amount of money Canadians were defrauded out of increased by 40 per cent compared to the previous year, totalling $530 million according to the RCMP. And that is only considering reported cases. Individuals and businesses, alike, can benefit from information about how to recognize, reject, and report cases of fraud.”

Terry Bell

Councillor/Chair of the Age Friendly Advisory Committee

 

“The impact of fraud is staggering; it can truly derail the life of its victims. I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to educate yourself about fraud and gain the skills and savvy protect yourself from falling prey to scammers.”

Bev Hendry

Chief Administrative Officer

Media Contact:

Beth Audet

Communications Specialist

baudet@westlincoln.ca

289-244-9069