No, your Alberta health card isn’t ‘obsolete’ – ignore text messages saying otherwise

Provincial officials are warning people not to fall for a text message claiming their health card is “obsolete” – and asking them to transition to an electronic health system.

The scam message, which purports to come from Service Canada, states that under new “Health Canada regulatory obligation,” all citizens must transition to the “Electronic Health Identification System.”

The fraudulent text goes on to say, “records indicate your current physical health card was issued prior to January 2023 and is now classified as obsolete.”

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

The scam text says to ensure uninterrupted access to health-care services, a replacement is required – and encourages the receiver to complete an online application, with a link attached.

In a statement to CTV News, the province says it will never send unsolicited text messages asking for Albertans’ personal or financial information.

“Fraudsters are one of the worst types of people in the world,” said Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally. “These texts are scams and should be ignored.”

If you receive a text like this, you’re warned not to click any links.

In addition, don’t provide personal or financial information.

Instead, delete the text.

Albertans who believe their personal or financial information has been compromised should contact local police and their financial institution.