Residents are warned to be aware of email-based scams after at least two reports this week of residents receiving threatening emails.
In both cases the victims received emails demanding payment via Bitcoin, with the scammers claiming they had accessed the victim’s webcams and recorded incriminating videos. Both victims also received Google Streetview images of their street, though both appeared to be old images.
There is no known connection between the two victims, and it is not known if their information was stolen during a data breach or if the scammers used open sources to obtain their information. Residents are reminded to be careful what you post online. Scammers can use details shared on social media platforms and dating sites for targeting purposes.
Anyone who suspects they have been the victim of cybercrime or fraud should report it to their local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501. Even if no financial loss has been sustained, interactions can still be reported to the CAFC.
