St. Albert RCMP is warning residents about a fraud scam resurfacing in the community.
The scam starts when victims are contacted through email or Facebook Messenger by the fraudster advising them that their bank account, Microsoft or Facebook account has been compromised. The victim is then told they are required to contact them.
After making contact, the scammer warns the victim that their accounts will be locked and their bank accounts frozen due to a criminal investigation. Victims are informed that to prevent their accounts from being frozen, they must prove they can still access their accounts by transferring funds using Bitcoin or PayPal to the fraudster. The scammer tells them they will be refunded as soon as the funds are received.
To send the money, the scammer provides QR codes to the victim, with the victim's name and bank information logo. The victims are told to scan them to make the deposit.
Following this, the fraudster directs the victim to their bank's "security department." Victims are forwarded Government of Canada letterhead documents, legal court documents and arrest warrant documents, saying that if they don't transfer the funds, a warrant for their arrest will be sent out within 48-72 hours. The scammer then threatens the victim by telling them that the RCMP has been notified and will be going to their residence to arrest them.
The St. Albert RCMP want to remind people that fraud can happen to anyone and that these fraudsters are professional criminals who are very convincing. If you suspect someone has compromised your personal or banking information, visit your financial institution and discuss the issue with an employee.
If you have been a victim of fraud or would like more information on all the different fraudulent scams in Canada, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
