Powerful Presentation Today by Jana Vessey — Staying Safe in a Digital World 
This morning we heard an impactful and eye-opening presentation from Jana Vessey, Patrol Sergeant with the Charlottetown Police. Jana, who leads a team of over 50 officers (and also runs a dairy farm!), shared invaluable insights on how to protect ourselves and our loved ones from modern scams, fraud, and online exploitation.
She walked us through the growing issue of fraud targeting seniors and women, noting that millions are lost every year in Canada to senior fraud alone. Internet-based scams are the most common—everything from romance scams and phishing emails to requests for gift cards or cryptocurrency. Janet emphasized the importance of staying skeptical, monitoring emails, slowing down, and verifying before responding to anything that feels “off.”
We also learned about the grandparent scam, where scammers pose as grandchildren in distress, and how creating family code words can help protect against it. She also spoke about rising sextortion cases, especially involving teens and young adults. Kids today face risks through social media and messaging apps, and she stressed the importance of teaching them that once something is posted or shared, it cannot be taken back. Predators often build trust, then demand explicit content, using threats once they have it.
Jana shared sobering stories of how images can end up on child exploitation sites, how cell phones link kids to the world—including predators—and how the emotional and psychological consequences can be devastating. She reminded us that victims should never be ashamed to come forward and that police can help, even when situations feel overwhelming.
In Charlottetown in 2024 alone, there were multiple sextortion reports ranging from ages 13 to 55, with scammers often demanding money multiple times through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and dating apps. Her message was clear: education, awareness, and conversation are key. Talk to your kids. Think before you click. Protect your personal information. And if something feels wrong—reach out to police immediately.
A huge thank-you to Jana for sharing her expertise, honesty, and compassion. Her presentation gave us tools to protect ourselves, our families, and our community. Stay alert, stay informed, and stay safe.
Pic: Sergeant Jana Vessey and Karen Jackson (UPSE President)
