Potential scam targeting personal information

Public Health Sudbury & Districts is aware of a scam currently circulating that claims to represent Public Health and requests personal information. Individuals could be contacted by phone, text message, or email. Public Health is encouraging the public to exercise caution and to hang up or end the communication if they have suspicions of a scam. You can contact Public Health directly at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200) if you have questions or concerns about a call.

Legitimate calls from Public Health

• If you receive a call from Public Health, the person will identify themselves and the program they are calling from. They will provide you with enough information about your specific situation to help you determine if the call is legitimate.
• Public Health only asks you for payment information over the phone in specific situations where there is a legitimate application already established within our system (for example, for sewage system applications). The staff member will first confirm your identity.
• If you’re suspicious, contact Public Health directly to speak with someone. A staff member will be able to help confirm if the call received was legitimate or not.

Safety precautions

• Be skeptical of unsolicited communication. If you’re not expecting a call from Public Health, it may not be legitimate.
• Recognize spoofing. Spoofing is used by fraudsters to mislead victims and convince them they are communicating with legitimate people or organizations. Don’t assume that the phone number appearing on your call display is accurate. If you’re suspicious, hang up and call Public Health directly.
• Do not be afraid to say no. Know you can always hang up the phone.
• If you believe you have received a scam call or message, please contact Public Health directly so that we can investigate it further.

Public Health takes the protection of personal health information seriously and will continue to notify the public of any known concerns. For more information about scams and protecting yourself, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.