A forum on scam awareness and artificial intelligence is being hosted this month by Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge MP Marc Dalton and the Ridge Meadows RCMP.
The event is coming up on Feb. 28, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Maple Ridge Seniors Centre, and is a free session.
Dalton told The News he organized the event because constituents reached out, concerned for their loved ones.
“It’s in response to what we’re hearing in the community,” said Dalton. “It is getting increasingly difficult to determine what is a scam. AI will be the focus.”
The event will highlight well-known frauds, including the grandparent scam, where a caller claims to be a grandchild in trouble, in jail, or in an emergency, and needing cash. The Canada Revenue Agency scam, where callers claim the CRA is sending police to arrest the victim over an unpaid debt, or promise refunds, and ask for payments or personal information. The CRA said it never threatens arrest.
Dalton said the new swindles, which can even simulate the voice of a loved one to call the victim, present more believable scenarios than in the past. So he said it’s important to tell people how the latest scams work, what to watch for, and how to protect yourself and family members.
Dalton is inviting those who feel comfortable sharing their experiences with scams to speak a the event.
To register, or get involved, email marc.dalton@parl.gc.ca, or call 604-466-2761.