North Vancouver RCMP warn of scam targeting seniors
A recent spike in financial scams have been reported, investigations are active and ongoing says RCMP
North Vancouver RCMP have noticed a recent spike in fraud targeting seniors.
On May 15, 2025, police say an older woman was contacted by someone impersonating a financial institution fraud investigator. The woman was told that fraudulent purchases had been made on her account and that the chips on her cards had to be checked.
She then handed them over to someone who visited her residence and claimed to be from her bank. She reported the incident to the police and her financial institution once she realized there were $23,000 in fraudulent charges on her account.
"We continue to repeat our warnings, but we don't mind being a broken record. We need would-be targets to know how to recognize these scams," said Cpl. Mansoor Sahak of the North Vancouver RCMP in a news release.
"We also need friends, family, neighbours, anyone who interacts with the elderly or those who are new to Canada to tell them about these scams, how to recognize them, and what to do if they are contacted by a scammer."
The release says eight similar frauds have been reported in North Vancouver. Investigators have determined that the suspects may be travelling throughout the Lower Mainland, but the investigation is still active and ongoing.
Tips to avoid scams
Sahak said to remember that anyone can be a target and that fraudsters can be extremely convincing.
Some tips provided by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to avoid being victimized:
- Don't be afraid to say no.
- Do your research to verify organizations are legitimate.
- Don't give out personal information such as your name, your address, your birthdate, your Social Insurance Number (SIN) or your credit card or banking information.
- Beware of upfront fees.
- Protect your computer.
- Be careful who you share images with.
- Protect your online accounts with strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.
- Recognize spoofing, which is used to mislead victims and convince them they are communicating with legitimate people, companies and organizations.
The RCMP urges people to contact their local police or call 911 if they have been the victim of a scam. They also point to scam reports on the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
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