The Drumheller RCMP are giving warning of a crime that has been rising meteorically over the past year. Residents are asked to be educated and wary of different methods of fraud that have been evolving in the digital age.
Fraud appears to be the fastest growing crime. Recent reported incidents are typically associated with the internet or telephone, but there are many other methods.
There are many different schemes that are being used that request for you to send money. Some schemes are:
1.) The caller by phone or Email may indicate that you have won a prize or a trip and are required to pay the taxes in order to receive the prize.
2.) You are befriended by someone on the internet who needs some financial assistance.
3.) Items are offered for sale on some internet site such as Kijiji or EBay. The price is so cheap you cannot risk not buying it and subsequently place a deposit
4.) There are schemes where the caller indicates they are related to you and they need you to send money as a result of some emergency.
5.) This time of year we have many Home improvement schemes being used. A group will advise that they are working in the area and noted that your shingles need to be replaced, your chimney is faulty, or your house is in need of painting. Because they are in the area, they can give you a great deal. Remember an old saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.”
Do not rush into any decision. Get the caller’s name and phone number and state you will think about it and call them back. If they won’t give you a phone number, chances are they are trying to take your money.
Check for business licenses, do they have one? Any references? If you have any doubt please call the RCMP at 403-823-7590 so they can investigate.
There are now over 4,000 applications that are designed to help the criminal obtain your information off of your phone and some enable them to take control of your applications. Be careful where you use your phone applications and always check your bill.
If you have any doubt please call before you send any money.
