New Westminster police are warning older adults to be aware of phone scams after starting several new investigations this week.
The New Westminster Police Department states the the details of the scams vary, but the common theme is that each victim was contacted by phone and pressured into sharing private financial information.
Scammers used tactics such as claiming the victim has won a prize or saying bail money is needed to get a family member out of jail.
In one instance a suspect met with a victim in person to collect credit cards, said a NWPD news release.
A suspect who met with a victim in person was described as being a tall Caucasian male of approximately 20 years of age with blonde hair.
“Any time the phone rings, assume the person calling you isn’t legitimate until they prove to you otherwise,” NWPD Sgt. Andrew Leaver said in a news release. “If you don’t feel comfortable, hang up the phone and call that person or institution back directly.”
The New Westminster Police Department is asking residents to share this scam warning with family and friends. They also suggest that residents translate the information for family and friends, if needed and if you have the ability to do so.
Anyone who has lost money due to a phone scam is asked to call the New Westminster Police Department at 604-525-5411.
If you did not lose money but received a scam phone call, you are encouraged to report it to the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or by visiting the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
The New Westminster Police Department also encourages everyone to keep up to date on scam trends by visiting the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
