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North Vancouver RCMP are reminding the public about fraudsters after a man lost a hefty chunk of cash and was then taunted by the churlish scammer.
Police say on Aug. 19 a distraught victim went to the local detachment reporting he had just been defrauded. The man said he had received a phone call from someone claiming to be a representative from a bank, stating that he owed money to the government for previous loans.
Out of fear of legal trouble, the victim believed the story and followed the scammer’s instructions. According to police, the man was directed to go to a local Bitcoin machine and deposit $11,800.
During the phone call, the victim made a stop at the North Vancouver RCMP detachment to confirm the caller’s identity and the claims made.
Police said the fraudster then realized the situation and asked the victim, “So how did you like this scam?” before quickly hanging up.
“In this latest scam, the fraudsters used fear and a sense of urgency to victimize the caller,” said Cpl. Mansoor Sahak, media relations officer for the North Vancouver RCMP in a news release. “We are sharing this case of fraud to raise awareness and highlight the bold actions of scammers to prevent further victimization.”
Investigators are attempting to help the man recover the lost funds, but it is often a difficult and complex task, North Vancouver RCMP said in the release.
Local Mounties are sharing the following tips on how to prevent being a victim in a scam:
- Don’t be afraid to say no
- Do your research
- Never give out personal information, such as your name, address, birth date, Social Insurance Number, or your credit card or banking information
Financial institutions will never request payment through Bitcoin or gift cards, North Van RCMP said, adding that if you have been a victim of a scam you should contact local police or call 911.
You can also contact the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre online or by phone at 1-888-495-8501 to report an attempted fraud, even if the scam was unsuccessful.
Abby Luciano is the Indigenous and civic affairs reporter for the North Shore News. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
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