Despite more warnings surrounding fraudulent activities and scams, a large number of British Columbians are falling victim, according to a new survey.
TD says of the 1,530 people surveyed on its behalf by Maru Public Opinion, 29 per cent of respondents said they had been victimized by financial fraud in the past year with 94 per cent of participants saying they believe the problem will only get worse in the next year.
Despite the high rate, one in three British Columbians don't talk about fraud experiences at home with 62 per cent saying they would feel less likely to become a target if the topic was discussed more at home.
Thirty-two per cent stated talking with family helped them avoid becoming a victim.
Almost half of British Columbians surveyed (46 per cent) feel vulnerable to fraud with the largest concerns expressed being financial loss (78 per cent), identify theft (69 per cent) and mental toll of being a victim (47 per cent).
Nationally, the Gen Z age group is the biggest target with 45 per cent reported being a victim.
Millennials came in at 34 per cent followed by Gen X at 26 per cent.
The latest scam notification was issued by the BC Lottery Corporation on Monday (Feb. 24), warning of involving the likeness of B.C. casinos.
In a news release, the organization said the scam involves the imitation of casinos in the province, tricking people into providing financial details on fake websites.
The schemes share fraudulent posts and advertisements that use logos, names and exterior pictures of B.C. casinos, offering player exclusive bonuses and promotions when someone registers with their website or mobile app.
BCLC says it's working with its casino partners to have the posts removed, but British Columbians should still stay alert when it comes to the scams.
