White Rock RCMP have issued a public warning following a recent increase in “believable telephone and internet scams” targeting local residents.
“We have had an upswing on that… with victims out multiple thousands of dollars,” Const. Chantal Sears told Peace Arch News.
According to a news release, the nefarious phone calls and emails have come in a variety ways, with victims – the majority believed to be seniors – reporting callers purporting to represent a Visa credit card company, Amazon or their bank.
“If you receive a call or email do NOT give out any personal information to whoever you are speaking to,” the news release states.
“They may seem legitimate, however; if they are truly who they say they are, they have all your personal information already. Your bank, credit card and online accounts that you have set up already have your information.”
The release adds that legitimate callers will never:
• ask residents to be part of a sting to help a bank capture suspects; or
• ask for crypto-currency or Apple/iTunes gift cards to help in police investigations.
In addition, Amazon does not send unsolicited emails asking for information or for a payment to be made outside of their website.
Sears said anyone uncertain if a call or email is legitimate should attend their bank in person to verify if they were trying to reach them.
“Do not be afraid to say no and hang up,” the release states.
Earlier this year, White Rock RCMP reported that residents were bilked of more than $1 million in 2022.
READ MORE: Scams netted over $1 million in White Rock last year
Anyone unsure if they have received a fraudulent email may contact White Rock RCMP for assistance in determining whether or not it is a scam.
Anyone who has fallen victim is encouraged to report the incident to local police. In White Rock, call
For information on fraud workshops offered by White Rock RCMP this month (November), contact Romy Devries at
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre also has tips, at antifraudcentre-lcentreantifraude.ca