Ontario university student loses $3K after clicking fake CIBC link

An Ontario university student lost $3,000 in an online banking scam while she was expecting money to help pay for her tuition and school books.

An Ontario university student lost $3,000 after clicking on a link that appeared to be a notice from CIBC to check her online banking. 

Toronto student Elisha Manila said she clicked on a link in a text she received and thought it was taking her to her online bank account.

“They redirected me to a website that looked identical to CIBC’s online banking platform," said Manila.

But after she signed in, scammers were able to hack into her bank account and send themselves an e-transfer of $3,000.

"Next thing you know, one or two hours later I get an email from CIBC saying I successfully e-transferred these people $3,000,” said Manila, adding, “I was dumbfounded. I didn't think I would fall victim to one of these things."

For the past 20 years, October has been recognized as cyber security awareness month to educate the public on the dangers of online scams.

CTV News Toronto reached out to CIBC and a spokesperson said in a statement, “ We worked with our client to resolve this matter given the unique and extenuating circumstances involved. It is important to remember that impersonation scams are on the rise and can affect anyone.”