Date: May 1, 2025Share

RCMP warn public of fraud scam

St. Albert RCMP are warning the public about a fraud scam that has resurfaced in the community. The scam begins when the fraudster contacts a potential victim via email or Facebook Messenger advising their bank account or Microsoft/Facebook account has been compromised and the victim is required to contact them.

When the victim contacts the scammer, they are advised that their account(s) will be locked and/or their bank accounts will be frozen as per a criminal investigation against the victim that is on going. The fraudster advises the victim that if they can prove that they still have control/access of their bank account by transferring money via Bitcoin transfer/Pay Pal transfer (which is said will be transferring right back to them upon receipt) then the victim's bank accounts will not be frozen as illegal assets. The scammer provides QR codes, with Financial Institution name/logo and the victim’s name on it, to scan to make a Bitcoin or Pay Pal deposit.

The fraudster then transfers or redirects the victim to the “Security Department” of their banking institute. The scammer then forwards Government of Canada letterhead documents, legal court documents and arrest warrant documents, in the victim's name, threatening the victim that a warrant for their arrest will be issued within 48-72 hours if they do not complete the transfer of funds to confirm their bank accounts. The scammer threatens the victim that the RCMP have been advised and will be attending the victim's residence to arrest them.

St. Albert RCMP want to remind the public that fraud can happen to anyone. These fraudulent individuals are professional criminals, their scams are elaborate and they are very convincing on the phone or via email. The best practice, if you believe your personal/banking information have been compromised, is to attend your Financial Institute in person and discuss the matter 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 @ www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca

St. Albert RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to the RCMP Detachment at 780-458-7700. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

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