Email Safety (“Phishing”)

Email fraud is something that Columbia Pacific Capital Partners (“CPCP”) takes very seriously. We have security systems and procedures in place to ensure that you can manage your investments in a safe and secure way. While we take every precaution to ensure your online safety, there are further steps you can take to protect yourself and your finances.

The following is information about some common types of email fraud and what you can do to prevent them.

Phishing

“Phishing” (pronounced “fishing”) refers to the use of email or websites to fraudulently obtain personal and financial information. One method involves sending “spoof” emails purporting to be from legitimate, trustworthy companies. Recipients are asked to click on links leading them to what they believe are legitimate websites, but are actually fraudulent websites created by the perpetrators. Recipients are then asked to enter personal and financial information on these websites, and the information is used to commit fraud.

Typically, phishing emails claim that there is an urgent matter or security breach that requires your immediate attention. Perpetrators often use fear or threats to extract personal and financial information. This information can then be used to access accounts.

Tips:

  • Be wary of emails from unknown or unsolicited sources. If you do not recognize the sender of the email, do not open attachments and delete the email.
  • Do not click on links in emails. If you want to visit a certain website, open a new browser and type the URL directly in the browser.
  • Avoid providing personal or financial information in an email to an unfamiliar recipient. Think about whether the alleged sender would send the type of email in question or ask for the type of information requested.

Spoofed Websites

Another form of phishing is the use of websites to fraudulently obtain personal and financial information. Having clicked on a link, users are led to websites that mimic the characteristics of legitimate websites. These websites are in fact fraudulent sites created by the perpetrators. The website then asks for personal and financial information.

Tips:

  • Check that the web address in the browser’s Address bar is correct and one you recognize. If in doubt, type in the company’s root address (e.g., https://cpcp.ca) and navigate to your desired page from there.
  • Look for the secure transaction symbol (a key or padlock) on the bottom of your browser screen before entering any personal or financial information.
  • Save regularly-viewed websites as favourites so that you return to the same URL.