Halifax Regional Police and Halifax District RCMP have received a number of reports recently in relation to a scam intended to defraud people of their money. The victim receives a text message from someone pretending to be a family member who says they have lost their phone and this is their new number. The suspect says that they need to pay bills and asks the victim to send them money.
Police remind people to be suspicious of any texts, emails or calls asking for money and to make sure the person is legitimate before providing any money. Scammers can spoof phone numbers and make it appear as though they’re calling from a legitimate number. You should not give personal information to anyone, whether solicitation occurs by email, telephone or in person, unless you are certain of the identity of the individual and/or the legitimacy of the organization they claim to represent.
Call police at 902-490-5020 if you’ve lost money or your identity has been compromised as the result of a scam. You can report a scam where you haven’t been a victim to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, or call 1-888-495-8501.
For more information and scam prevention tips, visit:
Source: Release