By Christian Oldale

Lethbridge County investigating external fraud incident

Feb 23, 2024 | 1:02 PM

LETHBRIDGE COUNTY, AB – Lethbridge County is notifying the public of a recent external fraud incident.

The County said in a news release that approximately $30,000 in vendor payments was intercepted by an unauthorized party. The county’s Finance department staff immediately launched an investigation to investigate the extent of the breach. The County has also notified the Lethbridge Police Service.

Cole Beck, CAO of Lethbridge County said, “We recognize that incidents such as these may cause uneasiness, but we want to assure our ratepayers and business partners that their financial information remains secure.”

Beck added, “This incident was a sophisticated effort to exploit Accounts Payable and there has been no data breach or release of any financial information.”

The County’s financial institution has determined that they are not able to recover the funds, and administration is working with the County’s insurance provider to determine next steps.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

Lethbridge County is reminding the public that banking scams and fraud attempts are becoming increasingly frequent, and are encouraging residents to learn how to identify and protect themselves from scams.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.