“HELLO Kenneth. While most hunters will be planning for the spring, we know you’re still eager to get outdoors. This season, scope out a different target using advanced technology to take on the predators. The ‘BLANK’ App is easy to use with the latest in reliable data.”
If you are a licensed Virginia hunter, odds are you have been getting persistent emails leading off with a message like the one quoted above that pushes you to download a hunting-related app. The email shows up in your inbox with a header that begins “VA Dept of Wildlife DWR Hunting Info.” A Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources logo is listed right next to the logo of the app that’s being pushed.
The company pushing this app, apparently based in Ontario, Canada, is one of several reportedly trying to confuse or dupe hunters into downloading apps or directing them to bogus license sales points.
Virginia DWR recently issued a notice to license holders stating: “Over the last few years, the Department has noticed multiple online sites claiming to sell DWR fishing and hunting licenses. These sites will end up taking your money and sending you a fraudulent license, or worse, no license at all. DWR has taken appropriate actions against these companies and will continue to do so as they come to their attention. They appreciate the public’s help in letting them know that these organizations are out there.”
