Coquitlam RCMP warn seniors and their caregivers of unsolicited telephone scams

Coquitlam

2024-11-08 08:24 PST

File # 2024-28304

Coquitlam RCMP are reminding seniors and their caregivers to be mindful of telephone scams.

Coquitlam RCMP continues to see an increase of fraud reports. Recently scammers have targeted seniors and vulnerable citizens with telephone calls posing as a representative from a well-known business or government agency. The scammers were telling the victim that their identity was compromised and the only solution was to send bitcoin.

Legitimate companies or government agencies will never request bitcoins, said Media Relations Officer, Corporal Alexa Hodgins. Scammers often use high pressure scare tactics to force the victim into complying with the requests. The best thing to do in these situations is to hang up and call your bank directly if you think your identity might have been compromised.

Cyber criminals continue to target older adults, who may be unfamiliar with new and creative scams.

Frauds and scams are becoming increasingly complex and sophisticated, often through the use of technology, said Corporal Hodgins. We are encouraging caregivers to speak with their older loved ones about these scams in the hopes that we can prevent future victims.

How to protect yourself from scams:

For more tips, visit: Government of Canada – How to protect yourself from scammers

What to do if you think you’ve been scammed:

In addition to these safety tips, Coquitlam RCMP often hosts Senior Safe-Tea events, which covers a variety of topics including: how to avoid fraud, recognizing scams and elder abuse. The last event was held on October 29, 2024.

See previous media release from October 17, 2024 to learn more.

Resources to consider:

Released by:

Cpl. Alexa Hodgins
Media Relations Officer
Coquitlam RCMP
2986 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, B.C V3B 7Y5
Office: 604-945-1580

Email: coquitlam_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: coquitlam.rcmp-grc.gc.ca (English only)

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