It’s a horrible reality that thieves are generally opportunists, and they have recently been coming out in droves. The COVID-19 crisis is providing new ways for scam artists to take advantage of people, and unfortunately they are usually society’s more vulnerable.
A Global News article published at the end of March details just a few of the seedy tactics fraudsters have come up with. Just a few are a text message saying that the recipient is entitled to federal money, which then asks for personal information to be entered once a link has been clicked. There have also been a number of fake companies trying to peddle personal protection equipment (such as gloves and masks), that don’t actually exist. Others are offering unnecessary cleaning services to protect against COVID-19. Shady “financial advisors” are providing the chance to invest in stocks that will somehow “rise” because of the pandemic. And there have even been reports of lists for sale naming people who have tested positive for COVID-19 in your neighbourhood. These lists are, obviously, fake and extremely dangerous as they can result in the shaming and persecution of a perfectly healthy person.
The Canadian government has come up with a comprehensive list of COVID scams, which can be found here. Protect yourself from COVID-19 scams by educating yourself on what to expect.
Protect Your Business From Theft
Scams are not the only thing individuals and business owners need to worry about during this unprecedented time. As many businesses have locked their doors as employees work from home, there are a lot of empty offices out there. These provide a great target for thieves.
Some ways to protect your business from theft include:
- Locking up thoroughly using deadbolts on all doors.
- Using a wrap-around door-jamb replacement plate to stop people from breaking down your door.
- Ensuring all door hinges are in good repair.
- Double-checking that all windows are securely closed.
- Installing metal door and window shutters.
- Activating all security systems.
- Leaving some lights on and installing motion detectors outdoors.
- Drive or walk by regularly and remove graffiti quickly.
- Move stock away from windows.
- Remove all cash and valuables.
Security Systems
Security systems are highly recommended for businesses and can even result in a discount on your business insurance. Ensure that they monitor all accessible openings. Cameras should be placed high enough to cover all angles and be out of reach, and the lighting should be good enough to capture discernable images.
All good alarm systems can be monitored remotely, preferably by both the business owner and a security company. If the alarm goes off, the security company is trained in the proper response. It is very dangerous for an individual to attempt to mitigate a burglary on their own, so we encourage everyone to invest in an alarm system that includes a physical response by a trusted security company.
Trust Lane’s for All Your Insurance Needs
The experienced brokers at Lane’s Insurance excel at educating customers, answering questions and explaining coverage, so you know you have the best insurance for you and your business.
“At Lane’s, our goal is quite simply to work with you, our client, to determine your needs and ensure that you and your assets are protected. Specifically, we want to ensure that your financial plan incorporates the right insurance choices for your life today, and the life you’d like to live tomorrow.”
