Manitoba RCMP are warning the public about an elaborate online phishing scam in which fraudsters are impersonating police officers.
Police say the scam begins with a random text message or email sent to an unsuspecting individual. The message includes a link directing the recipient to join a video conference call with someone claiming to be a police officer.
If the link is clicked, the fraudster attempts to convince the individual they could be arrested unless they assist police by sending gift cards or bitcoin. In some cases, the caller claims there is a warrant for the person’s arrest that can be removed if payment is made.
Over the past two weeks, dozens of individuals have reported being given the Manitoba RCMP’s general line phone number by scammers in an effort to appear legitimate.
Police stress the messages are fraudulent.
The RCMP will never send unsolicited texts or links asking the public to click on them. Anyone who receives such a message is advised not to click the link and to delete the text immediately.
Those who have clicked on the link or provided personal information during a fraudulent online meeting should contact their financial institution immediately and report the incident to their local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
RCMP are also reminding the public to take precautions to avoid falling victim to online scams. Residents should avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments in unsolicited messages, never send personal or banking information in response to unexpected communications, and verify the source of any message before responding.
Police emphasize they will never ask members of the public to transfer money or make payments using cash, credit cards, gift cards or bitcoin; provide remote access to a computer; or share personal information such as date of birth, address or banking details by text message.
Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime 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.
