Bitcoin - don't get scammed!
Langley
2021-12-08 12:31 PST
File # 2021-35950, 40440, 40483 & 40536
It’s getting to be time to chat about scams again. We seem to go for a period of time where they are sporadic and then we have a spate of reports where people have been defrauded or large amounts of money.
It’s important to know - No police agency will call you and ask for or demand money. These fraudsters are able to make it look like they are calling from a published police telephone number (spoofing / cloning). Neither do we take payment in bitcoin. In fact, a request for payment in bitcoin through any unsolicited messaging should be considered a big RED FLAG that something is not quite right. The victim in this case lost $1200. Bitcoin is not traceable.
A second victim received a call from someone saying they represented the bank and advised there had been a fraud. The caller invited our victim to participate in a ‘sting’ operation where bitcoin and MasterCard gift cards were purchased. Fortunately, this victim realized she had been duped prior to completing the transaction and was able to retain the gift cards. Unfortunately, the nearly $12,000 in bitcoin is gone forever.
These incidents are among five that took place in a month period. In total, nearly $20,000 has been defrauded from these unsuspecting individuals.
So what should you do? A few things come to mind. First, tell these stories to everyone you know…. Let’s protect each other. Second, listen to your own ‘spidey senses’. If you think something sounds hinky, it probably is and take a wide berth. Third, when you encounter one of these scams, call police! Give us a chance to warn others!
Released by
Cpl. Holly Largy
Media Relations OfficerLangley RCMP Detachment - "Connected with our Community"
langley.rcmp-grc.gc.ca (English only)
22180 - 48A Avenue, Langley, BC V3A 8B7
Office: 604-532-3231
Cell: 778-991-7932
Fax: 604-532-3239
Email: holly.largy@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
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