WestJet warns public of phone scam where fraudsters pose as airline reps

WestJet is warning the public of a phone scam where people pose as airline representatives.

WestJet Airlines Ltd. is warning the public to be on the lookout for phone scammers posing as airline representatives.

The airline took a precautionary step and issued a news release on Thursday, urging the public to avoid sharing credit card information or any other personal information with fraudsters posing as WestJet employees.

“It’s important the public is aware that these calls are not coming from WestJet or a representative of WestJet,” Richard Bartrem, the airline’s vice-president of marketing communications, said in the statement.

“Many of us here have been on the receiving end of these calls and understand the irritation they are causing. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience to the public and encourage Canadians to report their concerns to the correct authorities in the effort to locate the source of the issue.”

WestJet reiterated that it does not engage in telephone marketing. Concerned or potentially affected customers can contact the RCMP’s Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8502 or visit their website.

WestJet also warned the public to be cautious of “misdial traps”, where fraudsters use toll-free numbers close to WestJet’s legitimate number in an attempt to defraud guests who have called the wrong number.

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