The Leduc RCMP is asking the public to be wary amid an uptick in the reports of “emergency scams.”
According to a June 21 media release, the scams often begin with a phone call being placed to the victim with claims that a loved one, such as a grandchild, is in jail and payment is needed for their release.
The perpetrators of the scam will pose as police officers, judges, or possibly even family members in order to sell the story.
While scammers asking for cash is the norm, according to the release payment in gift cards, bitcoin or e-transfers are also not unheard of.
When asking for cash, the scammer could either send someone to act as a courier to collect the cash in person or request that the money be mailed.
To keep from getting scammed, the Leduc RCMP notes a few things:
-When paying bail for someone, it is always in person at a courthouse or correctional centre;
-Don’t send money to anyone you don’t know;
-If a person claims to be a police officer or judge, call that police service or courthouse directly to confirm the situation – police and courts will never demand cash be picked up in person or mailed; and
-Never give out personal information over the phone or online to someone you don’t know—the police or courts will not ask for personal information over the phone.
For those wanting more information about fraud or about the different scams going around, or have fallen victim to fraud, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.
The Leduc RCMP also encourages members of the public to report suspicious activity to them at 780-980-7267 or your local police service.
“Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future,” notes the release.
For crimes in progress, dial 911.
For those wishing to remain anonymous, contact Alberta Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at p3tips.com, or via the mobile app available on Apple and Android mobile devices.
