Protecting Albertans from cybercriminals
Protecting Albertans from cybercriminals
The new cybercrime task force will address the growing problem of extortion and digital fraud targeting Albertans.
Cybercriminals represent a serious and ongoing public risk by targeting families, seniors and businesses across Alberta for financial exploitation. To address these risks head-on, the task force will provide recommendations to address cybercrime, including fraud, identity theft and extortion carried out using technology. Fraudulent schemes are commonly conducted over international borders, making it more difficult for police departments to identify and find the source of the scams.
“We have seen too many examples of extortion threats across our province. This is unacceptable and it’s why Alberta is taking action to develop a coordinated provincial strategy to stop these scammers from extorting families in our communities.”Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice
“With growing uses of artificial intelligence, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on this task force, working together to mitigate risks of cyber fraud, identity theft and extortion for the benefit of Albertans.”Jason Stephan, MLA for Red Deer-South and Cybercrime Task Force Chair
The cross-ministry task force will comprise experts in law, technology, consumer protection and law enforcement. Membership will also include representatives from the ministries of Justice, Public Safety and Emergency Services, Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, Technology and Innovation and Intergovernmental and International Relations. A details list of members is available on the alberta.ca Cybercrime Task Force Webpage.
The task force will explore ways to protect the public from scammers who impersonate, use threats or deception to obtain personal information or pressure victims into making payments under false pretences. The recommendations will focus on legislative and regulatory options as well as federal government advocacy, to strengthen consumer protection and public safety.
Quick facts
- If you think you are being targeted by a scammer:
- Contact your financial institution and the credit bureau.
- Report the scam to local authorities or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.