A rural resident of Gibbons was defrauded of "thousands" of dollars in March, and Mounties are warning locals to be wary of scams as artificial intelligence technology continues to advance.
“On March 27, 2023, Morinville RCMP responded to a report that a rural Gibbons resident was defrauded out of thousands of dollars,” reads a May 3 news release from the detachment.
“An unknown suspect came to the victim’s door advising that their grandson was in jail and demanded bail money. The victim then spoke to an individual on the phone who they believed to be a family member and was persuaded to hand over cash to the suspect.”
RCMP spokesperson Corp. Sigmund Janke told the Gazette that Mounties have not identified a suspect or laid any charges related to the case.
The release says that Morinville RCMP has seen an increase in the frequency of bad actors who attempt to defraud the elderly and other vulnerable residents.
The detachment expects "the trend to continue with the advancements of artificial intelligence (AI)," the release says.
“To better inform yourself of what AI is, how it is being used against you and the concern law enforcement (sees) with this technological challenge, please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) to be better informed of the impact this is having in today’s world.”
“Regularly check its ‘index of scams’ affecting Canadians which highlights the scam mediums, main targets and warning signs.”
RCMP wish to remind residents to never provide money for someone's bail or unpaid fines to unknown individuals who come to your door.
“Police do not collect bail money, it is done at the court house,” the release says.
“If you have any information about fraudulent activities or know of anyone who has been scammed by those preying on the elderly and vulnerable residents in your communities, please contact the Morinville RCMP at 780- 939-4520 or your local police.”
