New Westminster police (NWPD) are urging local residents to ignore any "urgent-looking" messages that may appear out of the blue on your phone while scrolling online.
They're all scams, according to NWPD spokesperson Sgt. Andrew Leaver in a statement today, July 30.
The warning comes after police received a report from a local resident that someone accessed the cryptocurrency wallet on their phone without permission.
Remote access scams usually begin as a tech support pop-up, the NWPD explained.
A victim then clicks on the message or receives an unsolicited phone call with the person on the other side trying to trick them into downloading apps that give up control of their phone or computer.
As a result, the fraudster claims full access to steal personal information, emails, bank accounts and social media that leads to identity theft.
A ransom is typically asked by the scammer in order for the victim to regain control of their device, the NWPD said.
“Any urgent-looking message that pops up while you’re browsing online is a scam,” explained NWPD spokesperson Sgt. Andrew Leaver in a release today, July 30.
“Don’t click on them and don’t call the number they provide. Finally, never provide remote access to someone who has contacted you unexpectedly.”
Residents are encouraged to report any and all suspected fraud or cybercrime scams to NWPD at 604-525-5411 or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501, as well as the federal organization's website.
