Gift Card Fraud

RCMP are reminding the public to be very cautious if you receive a message from a friend over a Social Media site (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) that they were successful in winning money. If you respond, the scammers tell you that before receiving any winnings, you must pay an advance fee or buy something. The scammer may request payment through a money service business (Western Union, Money Gram etc.) or request that you provide prepaid gift cards. The Scammer will ask the Victim to keep it Secret until the victim receives their Winnings. This is huge warning. To protect yourself call that friend and speak with them. More often your friend’s account was hacked. Never provide personal information or banking information.

As of Sept. 30, 2022, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) has received 68,259 reports. There were 43,476 victims that lost $362.7 million dollars. Victims are asked to call their local RCMP or police of jurisdiction. Victims can also report fraudulent activity to CAFC by calling 1-888-495-8501 or visiting the CFAC Website; https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

If you have information related to this advisory please call 310-RCMP for immediate response, or you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).