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A new phishing scam has Manitoba RCMP on alert, with con artists impersonating police officers to trick unsuspecting individuals.
Mounties warn that people may receive a random text or email containing a link to a video call with someone falsely claiming to be a police officer.
If the link is clicked, the con artist then works to convince the individual that they could be arrested unless they help the “officer” by sending bitcoin or gift cards. The fraudsters may also claim there is a warrant for the individual’s arrest, which they say can be cleared if payment is made.
To make the scheme seem real, the scammers even provide the Manitoba RCMP’s general phone number.
In the past two weeks, dozens of Manitoans have been hit by this scam, and officers are urging the public to remain vigilant.
“RCMP will never send people unsolicited texts or links to click on,” said Manitoba RCMP in a press release. “If you receive such a message, do not click on the link and delete the text immediately. If you did click on the link and/or provided personal details via the fraudulent online meeting, contact your financial institution immediately, report the incident to your local police service and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.”
The RCMP emphasize they will never ask anyone to transfer money or make a payment, whether it be cash, credit card, gift cards or bitcoin. They will also never request remote access to your computer or personal information, including your name, date of birth, phone number, email, address or banking details via text message.
Anyone who may have fallen victim to this fraud is encouraged to report it to their local police service and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at reportcyberandfraud.canada.ca.
