“In today’s digital age, our cellphones have become an extension of ourselves, constantly buzzing with notifications and messages. But for many Canadians, those notifications are not always welcome.
Meet Digvijay Kosamia, a Vancouver resident who is no stranger to the frustration of receiving spam texts. From fake package notifications to phony bank alerts, Kosamia estimates he gets bombarded with up to 15 or 20 spam texts every week. And he’s not alone. Many Canadians find themselves inundated with these unwanted messages, raising concerns about their privacy and security in the digital realm.
The Rise of Phishing Attacks
In particular, phishing attacks have been on the rise, with scammers trying to trick recipients into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information. Last year alone, 5,395 text messages were reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, resulting in nearly $24 million lost to fraud. And those numbers are likely just the tip of the iceberg, as many victims do not report such incidents.
The Role of Automation
Jeff Horncastle, a spokesperson for the anti-fraud centre, highlighted the role of automation in these scams, making it easier for scammers to target individuals en masse. From promises of easy money to employment scams, these tactics are designed to exploit people’s vulnerabilities and trust.
Protecting Yourself
To protect themselves, individuals are advised to never provide personal information in response to unsolicited texts. Instead, they should verify the legitimacy of the message by contacting the relevant institution directly. Forwarding suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) can also help cell providers investigate and block fraudulent messages.
Looking Towards the Future
As scams continue to evolve and adapt, regulators like the CRTC are working with telecom companies to stay ahead of the curve. Despite their efforts, scammers are always finding new ways to exploit technology and target unsuspecting individuals.
In conclusion, the rise of spam and fraudulent texts is not just a Canadian problem but a global issue that requires collaboration and vigilance. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for individuals to remain cautious and informed to protect themselves in the ever-changing digital landscape.”
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