Squamish RCMP are urging caution after a local resident was defrauded of $3,900.
On November 20, a resident received a phone call from a number that appeared to be that of Squamish RCMP.
The caller said police have an arrest warrant for the resident and $3,900 needs to be deposited in bitcoin to avoid being arrested.
The local resident made the deposit but later realized that she was scammed.
Sgt. Sascha Banks of Squamish RCMP said criminals can be quite creative and technology exists that allows them to disguise their number.
“If you are suspicious, ask for their name and what police detachment they’re calling from and tell them you will call them right back,” Banks said.
“Then hang up your phone (if you’re on a landline unplug the phone from the wall as well) and call the Detachment directly.”
Banks said police will never call and ask for money over the phone.
