WestJet provides update on phone scam for Fraud Awareness Month

As part of Fraud Awareness month, WestJet has provided an update regarding the ongoing telephone scam that continues to implicate WestJet and other prominent Canadian brands.

Following WestJet’s update of the ongoing issue in November 2014, the perpetrators appeared to have begun using the names of other businesses. However, according to a new press release from the carrier, the calls have returned in recent weeks, beginning with: "you have won 999 WestJet dollars."

According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), the scam includes the caller advising an individual that they are a preferred customer and have been awarded a credit or discount on a trip - if booked immediately. High pressure sales tactics are used and the caller will request a credit card number in order to pay for fees such as taxes.

WestJet maintained that is not making these phone calls, nor is it associated in any way with the people who are. The carrier does not use telemarketers or make telemarketing calls, nor does it share guest information with third parties for the purpose of telemarketing.  

To that effect, the release stated that WestJet is committed to using every legal means at their disposal to stop the perpetrators from using their name, and is therefore working with regulatory and government agencies in Canada and Mexico.

WestJet encouraged anyone who receives one of these calls to hang up immediately and under no circumstances provide the callers with any credit card numbers or other personal information. The company also reminded Canadians to report these phone calls and other fraudulent activity to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or by calling 1-888-495-8501.

Information such as the date and time of the call, the telemarketer's name and telephone number, the telephone number that received the call and any additional information that would identify the caller or on whose behalf the call is being made, such as a website, will help the CRTC's enforcement officers.

Canadians who are registered on the National Do Not Call List should also report these phone calls to the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission through the list operator at http://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca or by calling the toll-free number 1-866-580-DNCL (3625).

Fraud Prevention Month is an annual event that gives private and public organizations involved in the fight against fraud an opportunity to raise public awareness.

The CRTC's website lists warning signs and ways in which individuals can protect themselves against vacation fraud:

• An unknown caller tells you that you won a contest you didn't enter.
• You receive a call advising you have won a free vacation but have to provide a credit card number to cover taxes prior to receiving the vacation.
• Check the website of legitimate companies; they usually post warnings about these types of solicitations.
• Never give out personal information or credit card information over the phone.
• If it seems too good to be true…it is.

Earlier this year, PAXnews.com took a look at the issue of fraud in the travel industry.