Police officer warns businesses, consumers about digital fraud techniques

Thieves are getting ready for the holiday season, according to Cpl. Dave Purdy of the Moose Jaw Police Service, who wants businesses and consumers to be vigilant this year.
"We get a lot more calls at Christmas," Purdy told a luncheon earlier this week hosted by the Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce.
The speech focused on digital fraud, shoplifting and scam artists.
Purdy's message to those gathered at the Heritage Inn was that criminal enterprises have gone digital.
He said people should think less about the notion of a thief rappelling through a hole in the roof to crack a safe.
Digital money is much easier to get than paper money, he said. Skimming, phishing, and computer viruses have replaced crowbars.
"We're not responding to as many shoplifting calls. They are not as prevalent as other frauds. It's cheaper and easier to steal personal information," Purdy said.
Skimming is when the information is stolen from a credit card and uploaded to an electronic device.
The credit card number can be sold and in use across the country within the hour.
"Never let your credit card out of sight, and remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is," Purdy said.
Phishing is a form of identity theft. Spam e-mails are sent, often disguised as a legitimate business, to trick users into sharing personal information.
A computer virus can be downloaded through e-mail attachments or pop-up ads when a user mistakenly clicks on them. The viruses may record keystrokes or allow hackers into computer files.
Businesses can defend themselves from theft by encouraging employees to greet customers, Purdy said.
"The best way for businesses to prevent crime is to say hello to everyone, make eye contact and ask them if they need help," Purdy said.
Purdy reminded delegates that private businesses are not obligated by law to allow people onto their property.
They can also ask customers to leave if they choose.

Matthew Barton can be reached at 691-1258.

Follow-up meeting on South Hill sessions on Wed.
The Partnership Working Towards a Healthier Community (PWTHC) are following up on community fact-finding sessions held in October with an information session in the Riverview Collegiate student's lounge on Wednesday from 7-9 p.m.
The PWTHC held two public meetings attended by people who live, work and play in the South Hill area of Moose Jaw. The goal was to identify and address community issues - as well as possible solutions - in whatever way the stakeholders see as beneficial. Next week's follow-up session gives those stakeholders a chance to hear the results from the study and start creating an action plan.
Aside from interested community members, PWTHC consists of the City of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan Ministry of Social Services, Five Hills Health Region, Prairie South School Division, Holy Trinity School Division, Connecting as Neighbours, Moose Jaw Housing Authority, Grandview United Church and Regional Intersectoral Committee.
For more information, phone Kathy Filipowich at 691-1563 or Nicole Nieminen at 691-1578.