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Community » RCMP release warning as Jasper residents targeted by scammers RCMP release warning as Jasper residents targeted by scammers 12, 2020 In: Community , Crime , Feature , News | comment : 0
Jasper RCMP has released a warning after being notified of frauds and scams on Jasper residents over the past few weeks.
Detachment commander Sergeant Rick Bidaisee said a number of Jasperites have reported phone calls in which techniques were used to access banking information or obtain personal information that could lead to identity theft.
He warned that business owners should be on the lookout for people buying gift cards in large amounts as these could be the victims of crime.
“Be aware that victims of frauds and scams are usually bullied into using this service to transfer funds to persons involved in criminal activity,” said Bidaisee.
“Remind customers who are making large purchases in this format to be aware they may be the victim of a scam or fraud and they should contact their local police service to talk about the situation.”
During fraudulent phone calls, some callers gained access to Jasperites’ computers on the pretext they may be experiencing software issues.
Some said they were seeking financial assistance with stories of lost travel documents and wallets – obtaining banking information from unsuspecting good Samaritans with the promise of repaying loaned funds.
“Jasper RCMP would like to remind the public of some basic safety tips when it comes to safety and fraud prevention,” said Bidaisee.
The RCMP will never ask you for money over the phone or tell you to pay for anything using Bitcoin, other crypto currency, iTunes gift cards or other gift cards.
They will never tell you to pay money or threaten to arrest you for tax fraud and will never ask you for your social insurance number.
Additionally, no legitimate government agency or business will demand payment in gift cards or prepaid credit cards.These methods are used by criminals in order to hide their activities from police.
If you receive a call from someone claiming you owe money, get as much information from them as possible and tell them you will call them back.
Find the government agency’s phone number through a trusted source (phone book, or official website) and call the department back.
Don’t trust the phone number or email from the caller until you have verified that they are who they say they are.
Do not share any personal information with the caller, such as confirming your name, social insurance number or address.
“The best protection from scammers is to learn how to resist being pushed into a decision regardless of how persuasive or aggressive the scammer may be,” said Bidaisee.
“Arm yourself and the vulnerable people in your life by learning how to recognize and protect yourself from fraud.”
Information is available at Canada’s Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre.ca and www.cra-arc.gc.ca/scrty/frdprvntn/menu-eng.html.
If you have any information about these fraudulent activities, please contact the Jasper RCMP at 780-852-4848.If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers on 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
Report any attempts of fraud to the Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501..