CTV Journalist Targeted by Sophisticated Phone Scam
CTV News consumer alert specialist Pat Foran recently found himself on the receiving end of a concerning phone scam that could have compromised his personal information and financial security. The incident occurred when a scammer contacted Foran claiming there were false charges on his credit card, attempting to gain remote access to his phone under the guise of resolving the issue.
The Scammer's Approach
According to Foran's detailed account published on November 28, 2025, the scammer employed sophisticated social engineering tactics to create a sense of urgency and legitimacy. The caller presented themselves as a representative from a financial institution, insisting that suspicious activity had been detected on Foran's account and immediate action was required to prevent further unauthorized charges.
The scammer's primary objective was to convince Foran to grant remote access to his mobile device, a common tactic used by fraudsters to install malware, steal personal information, or gain control over financial accounts. This type of scam has become increasingly prevalent across Canada, targeting consumers of all ages and backgrounds.
How Foran Identified the Fraud
Drawing on his extensive experience in consumer protection journalism, Foran recognized several red flags during the conversation. The caller used high-pressure tactics, demanded immediate action, and requested access that no legitimate financial institution would require for routine account verification or fraud prevention.
Foran emphasizes that no legitimate company will ever call unexpectedly and demand remote access to your devices. He advises consumers to be particularly wary of unsolicited calls claiming to be from financial institutions, especially those that create artificial urgency and pressure for immediate action.
Protecting Yourself from Similar Scams
Foran's experience serves as a crucial reminder for all Canadians to remain vigilant against phone-based fraud attempts. Key protective measures include:
Never grant remote access to your devices to unsolicited callers, regardless of how convincing their story may seem.
Verify directly with your financial institution using official contact information from your card or statements, not numbers provided by the caller.
Take your time and don't succumb to pressure tactics. Legitimate companies understand the need for due diligence.
Educate family members, particularly older adults who may be more vulnerable to these types of scams.
The timing of this consumer alert is particularly relevant as Canadians approach the holiday season, when scam activity typically increases. Foran's firsthand account provides valuable insights into the tactics used by modern fraudsters and reinforces the importance of cybersecurity awareness in an increasingly digital world.
