Phishing and impersonation scams continue to target organizations and individuals across Canada, and UNDE is no exception.
Every few months, fraudulent emails resurface that impersonate members of UNDE’s National Executive or Local Executives. Local Executive members can be particularly visible targets because their names and roles are publicly available, making it easier for scammers to create messages that appear credible.
While Local Executives may be directly targeted, every UNDE member should know how to recognize these scams. Fraudulent messages can be sent to anyone, and scammers may impersonate a union leader, colleague, employer, financial institution, government agency, delivery service, or another organization you trust.
Before you respond, check the sender
A message displaying the name of someone you know does not necessarily mean it came from that person.
Always look at the actual email address, not just the display name.
UNDE emails will never come from Gmail, Hotmail, or another generic personal email domain. If an email claims to be from a UNDE leader or representative but comes from one of these accounts, treat it as suspicious.
Also watch for small changes or misspellings in an email address. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security recommends checking both the sender’s identity and actual address because malicious messages can be designed to look very similar to legitimate communications.
Watch for urgency and unusual requests
Scammers want you to act before you have time to question the request.
Be especially cautious if a message:
- asks you to purchase gift cards or transfer money;
- asks for passwords, financial details or other sensitive information;
- pressures you to respond immediately or keep a request confidential;
- includes an unexpected link, attachment, QR code or login page;
- uses an unfamiliar email address despite claiming to be someone you know; or
- simply feels inconsistent with how that person or UNDE would normally communicate.
Do not respond. Do not click any links. Do not open attachments.
How to report phishing scams
Please let the UNDE National Office know if you notice any emails impersonating our National Executive. You can also report fraud any cybercrime online at https://reportcyberandfraud.canada.ca/