Phishing emails prompt North Battleford to shut down recreation booking system

“If you have clicked on this email or link and provided any information, please contact your financial institution immediately.”

Candace Toma, the city’s public and intergovernmental relations coordinator, told battlefordsNOW that it is the first time the city has dealt with an issue like this.

“We were alerted by members of the public who luckily had contacted City Hall to advise that they had received these emails.”

Toma said the city has taken steps to limit risk while the issue is being addressed.

“Out of an abundance of caution, we have shut down our online booking and removed that as an option from our city website.”

“At this time, we do not know the extent, but I can assure you that our IT team is working on it very diligently to ensure a good outcome.”

The city said versions of the email may vary, but a sample shows a message prompting users to click a link to listen to a “new voicemail.”

The city said versions of the email may vary, but a sample shows a message prompting users to click a link to listen to a “new voicemail.” (Image Credit: City of North Battleford)

Toma said the emails can take different forms and may appear to come from familiar sources.

“They look like voicemails coming from either SaskTel or Microsoft, which are the two that we’ve seen come through at this time.”

“If people are unsure, I would always delete.”

The RCMP have been made aware of the incident, and anyone who falls victim is encouraged to report it to police.

Until further notice, residents are being asked not to use the online booking system. Instead, the city is directing people to contact the central booking office by phone at 306-445-1755 or by email at centralbooking@cityofnb.ca, or to reach out to recreational facilities directly for bookings and rentals.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

by Kenneth Cheung

Phishing emails prompt North Battleford to shut down recreation booking system

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