Kennebecasis Regional Police are warning area residents this week about the latest round of scam calls, with those on the other end of the line claiming to be with RCMP.
The caller in the latest example begins by telling the victim that they have a loved one under arrest, and that payment must be made for their release.
Police say some of the details shared on such calls can often come off as convincing, adding if you get a similar call, you should hang up immediately as police will never contact you to ask for money.
Citizens are receiving calls from a private number where the caller claims to be a member of the RCMP. The caller tells the victim that they have a loved one under arrest, and that payment must be made for their release. The police will not call you asking for money. pic.twitter.com/D3Lr3G9v0L
— KRPF (@KRPFnb) May 21, 2021
The latest call is a variation of similar scams, some of which either involve someone attempting to impersonate law enforcement or government agency.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s web site likens the approach to the classic “Emergency scam” which prey on fear of a loved one being hurt or in trouble.
Scammers claim to be someone you know, telling you they need money immediately to cover claims such as bail money following an arrest, being hurt in an accident, or trouble returning from a foreign country as the most popular ploys.
The Anti-Fraud Centre adds that while scammers can claim to be any member of the family, (aunt, uncle, husband, wife or a friend), it is seniors who can be particularly vulnerable to such calls.
