Two nearby RCMP detachments are alerting the public about recent scams involving fraudsters using spoofing technology to impersonate Canada Post and the RCMP.
Spoofing is a technique where fraudsters manipulate caller ID to display legitimate phone numbers, making it appear that the call is coming from an official source.
In a news release last night, the Airdrie RCMP reported victims received a phone call from someone claiming to be a Canada Post employee, advising them that they are under investigation for shipping firearm parts.
The fraudster then transferred the call to an individual posing as a police officer. The fraudster tells the victim they are in legal trouble and requests personal information, including full name, date of birth, and potentially banking details. They may also claim that the victim is in immediate danger.
Earlier in the day, the Town of Olds warned residents about a phishing scam involving fraudulent text messages after its RCMP detachment received several inquiries from residents who had received some unsolicited text messages.
Scammers sent fictitious "RCMP Delivery Notice" messages that stated the RCMP had been unable to deliver court documents and asked people to "please reschedule the delivery to avoid missing your court date by using the link below."
The RCMP reminds the public that police officers and government agencies will never ask for personal information over the phone in this manner, nor will they threaten arrest or legal action if you do not comply immediately.
If you receive a call or message of this nature do not provide any personal information, hang up immediately, and contact Canada Post or the RCMP directly using verified phone numbers to confirm whether the contact was legitimate
If you believe you have been targeted or have fallen victim to these and similar scams, contact the Cochrane RCMP detachment at 403-851-8000 or your local police detachment and report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca