The Lloydminster RCMP is reminding residents to be vigilant of scams, as they’ve seen numerous cases since the beginning of this year.
The detachment says they’ve opened 80 fraud files over the months of January and February. These files have ranged from scammers trying to obtain resident’s personal information, trying to get money out of people by demanding credit card or gift card payments, and people purchasing items online, which never show up.
Due to these files nature of being complex and ranging in circumstances, the RCMP is offering some tips so residents can protect themselves.
They say people should be cautious with unfamiliar phone numbers or emails be cognisant of requests online or over the phone for immediate payments or money transfers.
The RCMP says legitimate businesses, government organizations like the CRA or police officers will not ask for personal or financial information via phone call, text, or email They will also not request payments to be made by way of gift cards.
In some cases, scammers claim to be the police or threaten arrest if a target does not comply with their direction. The RCMP says people need to be aware that police will never solicit money in any fashion.
They add that if people are unfamiliar with how cryptocurrencies work, avoid dealing with them.
If someone thinks they are or might be a victim of a scam or fraud, or have information about one, they should call their RCMP detachment and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.