UNB students are being targeted through different scams for their SIN numbers and banking information.
There are two scams: one online, disguised as a job application, and one on the phone, with someone pretending to be from a government agency.
The online job application was for “Avis Budget Group Incorporated”, which was a scam that, after receiving your application, sent you email asking you to complete a set of tasks, and send in your personal banking information.
The second scam had a fake employee from a government agency calling to ask about your personal information, like your SIN number and banking information. Upon receiving that, they then ask you to purchase gift cards, or transfer them money or digital currency.
How to protect yourself
- Never give personal information or passwords online, over the phone, or via email.
- Keep all your devices up to date to ensure they are secure.
- When filling online applications, make sure you research the cooperation beforehand to assure validity.
- Avoid online surveys that ask questions regarding your personal information.
- Be cautious of online transfers asking for money or gift cards.
- Do not respond to messages directly. If it is a legitimate request, contact the organization separately and ask for verification of contact.
- Make use of UNB’s online cybersecurity training at go.unb.ca/beauceron_students.
What to do if you have fallen for a scam
The first thing to do, if you have opened an attachment or a link, is to change all your passwords and scan your device using an anti-virus scanner as these links may have a virus.
If you provided personal information, such as banking, contact your bank right away and make sure they can monitor your account for suspicious use.
Let UNB security (UNBSJ Security: 506-648-5675) and IT services know (IT Service desk 506-657-2222).
Contact the non-emergency police line to report the scam. It is likely that they are aware of it, but it is always important to report so they have an accurate number of people affected by the scam.
For more information, and additional steps you can visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraud.ca or if you have any questions or concerns contact the IT Service desk at 506-657-2222 or at itservicedesk@unb.ca
