At Saanich Volunteer Services Society people sometimes ask us about requests for money from online sources. We advise that people should not respond to online requests for money. Even if the request seems honourable, tugs on your heart strings or claims its from someone you know, it is often fraudulent in these times. No request is as urgent as the fraudster would have you believe. Do not let someone influence you with their panic. Take a breath, shut down your computer correctly, and call a trusted friend or service professional to speak about the situation. If the online person continues to pester you, or if you have given them your personal information, report the matter to the Saanich Police non emergency line at (250) 475-4321.
The Saanich Police have a fraud department and their informative brochure is linked here:
If you'd like to learn how to safely donate your money online, this website from the UK, produced by "infoSec360 Ltd, a specialist security consultancy based in Leeds in the UK" has some interesting and informative facts to review.
Remember to always check the source, even when you find it here on our SVSS website.
Keep yourselves informed and safe online while you enjoy the wonders of our modern internet age.
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