Spot and Avoid Text Scams During the 2024 BC Provincial Election

There is currently an election happening in BC, and with it comes a surge of potential scams and unsolicited data collection attempts. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks associated with responding to certain text messages.

Many people have reported receiving messages from individuals claiming to represent "Voter Research Services." These messages often come from different phone numbers, making them difficult to track or block consistently. Here’s an example of what some voters have seen:
 
"This is Nancy with Voter Research Services. Who do you plan to vote for in the upcoming BC Prov Election?

NDP
BC Conservative Party
Green"

Messages like these might seem harmless at first glance. However, unless you are absolutely certain about the legitimacy of the sender, your best course of action is to either report the text as spam or block the number. Responding can open you up to further solicitation and, more worryingly, can expose your personal information.

Once you reply, the sender may ask you to confirm additional details, such as your postal code. Many people don’t realize how revealing this information can be. A postal code might seem generic, but in some cases, it can narrow down your location to just a few addresses—potentially even a single apartment building. This means that by sharing your postal code, you could be inadvertently revealing your approximate home address to whoever sent the message. Combined with your phone number, this gives scammers or data collectors a more precise understanding of where you live.

But why is this information valuable? In the world of targeted political campaigns, every piece of data matters. A phone number tied to a specific location can be used to build detailed voter profiles. These profiles may then be used to send more tailored messages, sway voter opinions, or even spread misinformation. While not every text you receive during an election season is a scam, the lines between genuine outreach and manipulation can blur quickly.

What should you do if you receive such a message? Here are a few tips to protect yourself:

1. Do Not Respond: Even a simple reply like “Stop” can confirm to the sender that your number is active. Once confirmed, your number might be sold to other groups or targeted with additional messages.

2. Report and Block: Most smartphones have an option to report spam messages. Use this feature, as it can help your carrier take action against potential scammers. Blocking the number is another way to prevent further messages from the same sender.

3. Stay Informed: If you’re unsure whether a message is legitimate, check the official website of your local elections office. They often provide information on how they will contact voters and what types of communication to expect.

4. Be Cautious with Personal Information: Sharing details like your postal code or email address may seem harmless, but it can be used to piece together a bigger picture of your identity. Be mindful of who you share this information with, especially if it’s solicited through a text message.

5. The rise of text scams is not unique to elections, but elections present a particularly fertile ground for these activities. Emotions run high, people are more engaged than usual, and there is a heightened interest in political discourse. Scammers know this and take advantage of the moment to gather valuable data.

It’s also worth noting that some of these messages could be part of legitimate polling efforts. Political parties and research firms often conduct surveys to gauge public opinion. However, distinguishing between a genuine poll and a scam can be challenging. Legitimate polls typically provide clear information about the organization conducting the survey and how the data will be used. If this transparency is missing, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

As you navigate this election season, remember that your personal information is valuable. Protecting it is a crucial part of maintaining your privacy and security. Staying vigilant against potential text scams can help ensure that your voice is heard in the election—without compromising your data.

Robertson Technology Group, based in Victoria, BC, is dedicated to providing comprehensive IT solutions tailored to meet the needs of local businesses and organizations. With a focus on security, reliability, and customer service, we strive to ensure that our clients’ technology infrastructure operates smoothly and efficiently. Our services range from managing day-to-day IT operations to implementing advanced cybersecurity measures, helping businesses stay protected in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

We understand the unique challenges faced by businesses in BC, especially during times of increased online risks, like elections or other significant events. Our experienced team is committed to providing proactive support, whether it’s preventing cyber threats, managing network security, or offering expert advice. We aim to empower our clients to focus on what they do best, while we take care of their technology needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business stay secure and connected.