CPS Victim Assistance Support Team

As part of this week’s #FraudPreventionMonth theme, we’re highlighting online scams that show up through fake websites, fraudulent advertisements, impersonation messages & deceptive social media accounts. These scams are designed to look legitimate, making them difficult to spot. Stay safe online by keeping these steps in mind: ➡️ Be cautious of unexpected messages from people claiming to be banks, delivery companies, government agencies or even friends. ➡️ Avoid clicking unfamiliar links, as they may lead to malicious websites created to steal your personal information. ➡️ If someone asks for personal details, passwords or financial information, verify their identity through a trusted source before responding. ➡️ Use a strong, unique password and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible. ➡️ Watch for deals that seem too good to be true on online marketplaces or advertisements. ➡️ Report suspicious activity to help protect others. 📣 If you have suffered financial loss or had your personal information compromised, please report it by calling the non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or visiting @stopcrimeyyc at crimestoppers.org.

This week, as part of #FraudPreventionMonth, we’re highlighting one of the fastest-growing types of fraud: investment scams. These often begin with something that feels harmless, such as a ‘wrong number’ text or a friendly direct message, but they can quickly escalate into losses of thousands of dollars. These few simple habits can help protect yourself: 🔹 Be cautious of investment opportunities that promise guaranteed or “too good to be true” returns. 🔹 Take time to research platforms and look up independent reviews. 🔹 Avoid sharing personal information or sending money to unknown wallet addresses. 🔹 Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s okay to walk away. ℹ️ If you have suffered financial loss or had your personal information compromised, please report it by calling the non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or by visiting @stopcrimeyyc at crimestoppers.org.

Fraud can have serious financial and emotional impacts on victims. Know the signs, protect your information, and report suspicious activity. Learn more about supports available to victims: bit.ly/4tUumX0

On National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, we’re highlighting the important work that our officers with @ALERT_AB do to support survivors of human trafficking. Our Safety Network Coordinators (SNCs) connect with individuals who are being sexually exploited & provide them with the support and resources needed to exit exploitation. We continue to expand our efforts to combat exploitation & human trafficking & recently added another SNC to work specifically with Indigenous communities. In addition to survivor outreach, we also strategically target human traffickers through investigations & enforcement. Learn more about human trafficking in Calgary, how to recognize the red flags & what police are doing to combat it: alert-ab.ca/public-knowled…

Cali girl, thank you for your incredible service. We loved working with you and are going to miss you so much. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement!

After almost 8 years of service, Victim Assistance Support Team (@CPSVAST) Accredited Facility Dog Calibri (Cali) is retiring. Cali joined VAST in 2018 after 2 years of training & certification through PADS. She has brought comfort & calm to victims, families, witnesses & CPS members during some of their hardest moments. Together with her handler, she has positively impacted countless Calgarians during her time with the CPS. 💕 Thank you, Cali, for your compassion, dedication & the support you’ve given to our community & to the Calgary Police Service. Enjoy your well-earned retirement. 👏

Today we celebrate the arrival of Lunar New Year & welcome the vibrant Year of the Fire Horse. 🔥🐴 🎉 This season is a meaningful time for family, tradition & fresh beginnings. We are honoured to be included in celebrations across Calgary & extend our warmest wishes for prosperity, good health & joy to everyone observing. Gong Xi Fa Cai! 🏮

☪️ Ramadan Mubarak! ☪️ With Ramadan beginning this evening, we wish a peaceful & blessed month to all who are observing Ramadan. #Ramadan #RamadanMubarak

If you or someone you know has been affected by the events in #TumblerRidge, BC, Kids Help Phone is here to offer non-judgmental support 24/7. To learn about coping with tragedy and ways to get support, you can visit KidsHelpPhone.ca/TumblerRidge

Our thoughts are with the victims, families & all those affected by yesterday’s tragic events in B.C. In moments of profound loss, we are reminded of the strength that comes from supporting one another as a community. We also extend our deepest appreciation to the first responders who acted with courage, professionalism & unwavering commitment during an unimaginable situation. Their dedication continues to protect & uplift us all. CPS stands with Tumbler Ridge as they navigate this difficult time.

We’re a few days late to the paw-ty, but Melon isn’t bothered, he’s been too busy offering love & support to the community. Happy fourth birthday Melon! 🎁🎂   As an Accredited Facility Dog, Melon works with the Victim Assistance Support Team (VAST) to support community members during some of their most difficult moments. Whether he’s easing anxiety in court or simply giving someone a reason to smile, Melon’s presence makes a real difference.   ☎ If you require support, please reach out to our Victim Assistance Support Team (VAST): 403-428-8398 or Victimassistance@calgarypolice.ca   🌐 For more information on VAST visit calgary.ca/content/www/en… @CPSVAST

The Canadian Victims Bill of Rights, came into force on July 23, 2015. Providing the following rights to victims of crime: Right to information Right to protection Right to participation Right to seek restitution Read our report on its progress: bit.ly/4b9Qu8T #CVBR10

Today on #InternationalHolocaustRemembranceDay, we pay tribute to the memory of the victims & the survivors of the Holocaust. As a Service we remain committed to addressing incidents of antisemitism, racism & all forms of intolerance.

Pro Bono Law Alberta is partnering with Calgary Legal Guidance to host the 15th Annual Calgary Legal Advice Clinic. Sign up for your free, confidential 30-minute legal advice appointment here: forms.office.com/pages/response… #Probonolawalberta #probono #calgary #legaladviceclinic2026

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health and addiction challenges, know that you are not alone. 211 Alberta is available 24/7 to connect you with nearby services and supports. 📱 Call or text INFO to 211 🔗 Visit ab.211.ca

👤 The holiday season may be over, but scammers are still hard at work. Stay alert for suspicious emails, texts or phone calls claiming to offer refunds, delivery updates or ‘too-good-to-be-true’ deals. Remember: ✅ Avoid sharing personal or banking details over email, text or an unsolicited call. ✅ If a message claims to be from a bank, retailer or delivery service, verify it by contacting the organization directly using their official website or phone number. ✅ Avoid clicking on unexpected emails, texts or suspicious links, especially those offering refunds or leftover deals. ✅ If something feels off, consult a friend, family member or report it to police. If you’ve lost money or had your personal information compromised due to fraud, you can report it to the CPS by calling the non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or by contacting Calgary Crime Stoppers.

Crisis or everyday need? Start with 211 Alberta. From housing to food and caregiving, we’re here to help you figure out what to do next.  📞 Dial 211 | 📱 Text INFO to 211 | 💻 ab.211.ca  💬 Available 24/7, free, and in 170+ languages.  Proudly supported by @myunitedway, @Distress_Centre, and @cmhaEdmonton.  Your first step to finding the help you need.  #211Alberta #FirstStep #HereToHelp

During the holiday season, we are operating with minimum staffing in order to give our people & pups time off with loved ones. While our call centre is closed on stat holidays (Dec. 25, 26, & Jan. 1), we will respond to calls & emails otherwise. Happy holidays, everyone! 🎄🌟

Opinion: Changes needed to protect young sexual abuse victims calgaryherald.com/opinion/column…