Red Deer RCMP is warning citizens of evolving scams victimizing seniors within the community.
These recent scams involve a story in which a loved one has gotten themselves into a predicament, usually involving the law.
The motive of these fraudsters is to call seniors and impersonate police officers, lawyers, and grandchildren to get money quickly from victims by way of email money transfers, courier and gift cards. In some cases, someone will even show up at the victim’s home to collect the cash.
Fraudsters are able to find out personal details about the victim and their loved ones from social media and other platforms. The fraudsters then call and provide a story that a loved one needs bail money for some incident.
They can be very convincing and manipulating.
Red Deer RCMP says to protect yourself or other family members be mindful or careful of what you post online. Scammers can use details shared on social media platforms.
If contacted by a scammer, hang up and do not provide information or send money to the caller. Call your loved one to confirm information that had been provided over the phone.
It is also important to report this information to the police. Law enforcement will never use high-pressure tactics to request money.
To report a scam call your local police or go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or by phone 1-888-495-8501.
Contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or using the “P3 TIPS” app.
To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.