WestJet warns public of new phishing email scams

WestJet is warning the public of new email scams using the WestJet name and brand likeness combined with a time-sensitive discount voucher to get recipients to give up their credit card information. 

"WestJet urges the public to be aware of unsolicited or spoofed emails from WestJet," said Richard Bartrem, WestJet's Vice-President Brand, Communications and Community Investment. "The scammers are using the trusted WestJet name among other well-known Canadian brands in a fraudulent attempt to steal credit card information in exchange for a limited-time discount voucher. Do not provide your credit card or other personal information to an unknown source, through an email solicitation. These spoofed emails are not being sent by WestJet or on behalf of WestJet and we have alerted Canadian anti-fraud authorities and urge anyone with concerns to do so as well."

The scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, including reproducing WestJet’s email templates and branding. The airline urges the public to continue to remain vigilant and watch for grammar errors, or a requirement to pay an upfront fee to access a prize or discount, both common red flags in phishing emails. Additionally, they ask the public to always check the email sender’s email address if they aren’t sure of its authenticity.  

WestJet has more information posted on its advisories page under 'scams'.  

For anyone who believes they may be a victim, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or visit their website at https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm  for more information and to report details.