Vancouver – Vancouver Police are warning the public to be cautious of a scam in which fraudsters pose as police officers to steal money from unsuspecting victims.
“Vulnerable and unsuspecting people in our community are being tricked into sending thousands of dollars to people they’ve never met,” says Constable Tania Visintin. “By the time they realize they’ve been scammed, the fraudsters have disappeared, and their money is gone.”
Since June, VPD investigators have received five reports involving suspects who contact victims by phone, claiming their bank cards have been compromised. The scammers identify themselves as Vancouver Police officers and tell victims that someone will come to their home to collect the compromised card. Shortly after handing over their cards, victims discover money has been withdrawn from their accounts. In total, victims have lost approximately $15,000.
“We want to remind everyone that no police officer or financial institution will ever send a courier or representative to your home to collect a bank card,” adds Constable Visintin. “If you receive a call like this, hang up immediately. If you’re concerned about your account, contact your bank directly.”
Anyone who believes they’ve been victimized by these scams is asked to call the VPD non-emergency line at 604-717-3321 to make a report.
