HRP release:
Police are investigating the report of a sophisticated fraud involving phone spoofing.
The victim reported that on Oct. 7, she received numerous calls from a phone number matching the customer service number on the back of her bank card. When she answered, someone claiming to be a member of the bank’s fraud department advised her that her account had been compromised. The suspect then asked the victim several questions to verify ownership of the account.
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The following day, the victim received a second call from a different number with an automated voice advising her password had been used too many times and she needed to reset her personal PIN code.
Shortly after, the victim received another call that appeared to be from her bank’s fraud department requesting assistance in their investigation. She was told that a member of the RCMP would be contacting her. The victim then received a call from a person who she believed was an RCMP officer, using a spoofed RCMP number. The victim was given instructions to go to her bank, make a withdrawal and deposit the money into a crypto machine.
The incident was reported to police on Oct. 10.
Police remind people to be suspicious of any emails or calls asking for money. Scammers can spoof phone numbers and make it appear as though they’re calling from a trusted source. Do 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.
If you have been a victim of fraud, call police at 902-490-5020. 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:
