‘Blessing scams’ the latest con targeting Vancouver seniors: police

Vancouver seniors have been targeted by 'blessing scams' this spring, conning people out of thousands of dollars in some instances, according to police.

Vancouver police have issued a warning about blessing scams, an increasingly common con that has swindled thousands of dollars out of seniors in the city.

The Vancouver Police Department said the scam occurs when someone convinces a victim, often an elderly person, that they need a spiritual blessing to ward off an impending misfortune or curse.

According to police, this has happened at least five times in Vancouver since May, with the most recent incident captured via CCTV on June 6—when a victim was approached while leaving a grocery store near Southwest Marine Drive and Yukon Street.

Authorities said two women convinced her that terrible things were on the way for her family in the form of one of these misfortunes or curses, then brought the victim to another person who was going to perform a blessing that could put a stop to this—but that would require the victim to bring valuables from home.

The victim went home, grabbed more than $15,000 in cash and a gold ring, and put it all in her purse. She returned for the blessing, and the suspects removed it all from her bag without her knowing, authorities said.

Const. Darren Wong said the VPD has released the footage in hopes that someone recognizes any of the three suspects.

“These suspects prey on the vulnerability of our seniors, using fear, manipulation, and cultural beliefs to steal their life savings,” he said in a statement.

Police have also released a map of all the locations where they’ve seen these crimes occur.

In a news release, police offered advice on preventing the scams— including maintaining a distance from strangers, “even if they seem friendly or are offering gifts.” They also recommended those who feel unsafe or that they’re being targeted draw attention to themselves to attract bystanders.

The VPD has asked anyone who is scammed in this manner to call 911.