They steal millions from notaries

Millions of dollars entrusted to Quebec notaries have been compromised by easily detectable frauds, Le Journal learned . A situation "highly worrying" in front of which the Chamber of Notaries nevertheless rejects any responsibility.

Since last September, nearly a dozen notaries in the province have been the victims of phishing in relatively simple schemes. A phenomenon "in recrudescence", according to internal documents that we obtained.

By presenting false identity documents, the fraudsters in question notably had access to the trust accounts of these professionals. These accounts are used by notaries to deposit money on behalf of a third party, in the case of a real estate transaction, for example.

"These are reports of digital identity theft, a bit like those that can be victims Mr. and Mrs. Everybody. Except that in this case, fraudsters have had access to the trust accounts of notaries, "says Johanne Dufour, director of communications at the Chambre des notaires du Québec.

According to her, they are "isolated cases", even if they are more and more numerous.

The room is unloading

Although her main mission is to ensure the protection of the public who use the services of its members, Ms. Dufour says that it is up to them to handle these frauds with their financial institutions. The Chamber does not intend to take additional measures.

"[The Chamber] has no control over this, since it is the responsibility of each notary. Notaries do not have the obligation to report it to the House, but they are encouraged to do so. It is the financial institutions that are responsible for these accounts, not us. We are in touch with them. As soon as we have reports, the House communicates with the financial institutions, to make them aware, "she continues.

However, the Chambre des notaires du Québec states on its website that it "carries out a very strict control of the trust accounts of notaries", by requiring an annual audit.

"She also audits these accounts through professional inspection," says one.

To help its members avoid them better, the House says it offers training on fraud. It also gives them regular reminders.

Banks repay

All trust accounts must be opened with a Canadian financial institution whose funds are covered by deposit insurance, which means that the persons who entrusted these funds to the notaries were quickly able to receive compensation.

In several cases, the notaries targeted by the fraudsters had accounts with Desjardins.

In others, CIBC or Royal Bank checks have been used to scam notaries.

CIBC and Desjardins told the Journal that these frauds targeted professionals very seriously, while RBC spokesperson Denis Dubé refused to answer our questions.

When similar cases arise, Desjardins teams intervene very quickly "to secure files, accompany members and investigate fraud," says Desjardins spokeswoman Annie Josiane Bujold.

"In these cases, investigations led to a full refund of notaries. When required, it is certain that Desjardins collaborates with the police forces, "she continues.