Scammers target wildfire evacuees with fake Red Cross messages, warns Manitoba Métis Federation

The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) is warning the public about a troubling new scam targeting wildfire evacuees. Fraudsters are sending spam emails and texts that falsely claim to be from the Canadian Red Cross, asking recipients to provide banking details under the pretense of processing emergency payments.

“There are folks who are horrible people, who take advantage of a genuine crisis like this and prey on people who are already vulnerable,” said Will Goodon, Minister of Housing for the MMF.

In a statement, the Red Cross confirmed it is aware of individuals exploiting the crisis using fraudulent tactics. While the Red Cross does communicate with the public through email, phone, and in-person interactions, it emphasized that it never sends links via text messages or asks for sensitive information such as social insurance numbers, bank account details, or credit card numbers for registration or assistance.

Those who believe they may have fallen victim to a scam are urged to contact local law enforcement. The Red Cross also encourages everyone to stay informed by relying on credible sources.

“You’re not only losing money that could have gone to families in need,” said Goodon, “you’re also losing the public’s trust. When another crisis happens — hopefully not for decades — people may hesitate to help, unsure of who they’re really dealing with.”