The Alberta government is warning residents about scam text messages claiming physical health cards are becoming obsolete. The fraudulent messages urge recipients to click a link or take action, but officials stress that Alberta health cards remain valid and are not being replaced.
Scam Details
The text messages falsely state that the physical Alberta health card is obsolete and that residents need to update their information or obtain a new card. The Alberta government has not issued any such notices and advises recipients to delete the messages immediately.
According to a government spokesperson, “These texts are not from the Government of Alberta. Do not click on any links or provide personal information. Your health card is still valid.”
How to Protect Yourself
Residents who receive such messages should not respond, click any links, or share personal details. The government recommends reporting the scam to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and deleting the message.
If you have already clicked a link or provided information, contact your financial institution and change passwords. The Alberta government also encourages residents to verify any official communications through its website or by calling the Alberta Health Services line.
Official Statements
The warning comes as phishing scams become increasingly common, targeting personal data such as health card numbers, driver’s license details, and banking information. The government emphasizes that it never requests sensitive information via text message.
“We want Albertans to be vigilant,” said the spokesperson. “If you receive a suspicious text, ignore it and report it.”
