Airdrie RCMP say a spoofing scam, where scammed use fake caller IDs to trick victims, is making the rounds in southern Alberta.
On Monday, authorities say they’ve been informed of several instances where fraudsters are using the technique to make themselves appear to be with the RCMP or Canada Post.
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Police say the scam begins with an unsolicited call to a victim from someone who says they work for Canada Post.
The victim is told they are under investigation for shipping firearm parts and the call is transferred to someone posing as a police officer.
Officials say the fraudster then tells them they are in trouble and demands personal information such as their full name, date of birth and even personal banking details.
They also suggest the victim is in “immediate danger.”
RCMP are advising anyone who receives one of these calls to not give the caller any personal information. They should instead hang up and contact police immediately.
“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,” RCMP said in a news release.
If you believe you have been targeted or have fallen victim to a scam, please contact the Airdrie RCMP at 403-945-7267 and report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.
