West Shore RCMP is advising the public to be aware of an impersonation scam after a resident was asked to give money by someone posing as a police officer.
Police received a report from a West Shore citizen on Dec. 12, who advised they had been defrauded of money after receiving a phone call from someone posing as an RCMP officer.
The fraudster phoned the victim saying they were calling from Amazon and that the victim’s account was flagged for several fraudulent purchases.
Moments later the victim received another phone call from a fraudster posing as an RCMP officer. The fraudster told the victim their accounts had been compromised and to transfer money into a specific Bitcoin account.
“We want the public to beware of this type of fraud. Under no circumstances would police ever direct you to transfer or deposit money into Bitcoin or other accounts,” said Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP Media Relations Officer.
To combat fraud the RCMP have provided tips including, don’t be afraid to say no and hang up the phone, don’t give out personal information including banking information, and beware of spoofing, fraudsters can manipulate call display, making it seem as though a legitimate business or police are calling you.
The RCMP also suggests checking the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website for a list of current frauds and how to protect yourself.
READ MORE: Victoria police officer suspended after complaint of misconduct
