Abbotsford police warn of two scams
The Abbotsford Police Department (APD) is warning the public about two scams.
Const. Ian MacDonald said the APD has received an increased number of reports about frauds and attempted frauds in recent weeks.
One involves the ongoing “grandparent scam,” but with a slight twist.
This scam, which has occurred across North America, involves a person posing as someone in authority – such as a lawyer or police officer – who calls on behalf of a supposed family member.
The target is asked to send funds to help get their loved one out of trouble.
The twist is that the people receiving the recent calls appear to live in the southern United States, and the caller purports to be with the APD.
The fraudster claims that a money transfer is required for bail money to release the relative from jail.
The other scam involves the promise of a job. Abbotsford residents will respond to an employment ad – usually for “work at home” operations – and they then receive an email advising them that they were the successful applicant.
They are told their first paycheque will arrive in the mail with further instructions. When the cheque arrives, it is for more than the agreed weekly wage.
The new employee is asked to cash the cheque and transfer the remaining funds to what appears to be an orphanage or medical facility.
COMMENTS
Let's keep comments:
We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters.
We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.