Strathcona County RCMP Alert Public to Financial Institution Phone Scam

Strathcona County RCMP are cautioning residents about a recent surge in phone scams impersonating financial institutions.

These fraudulent calls display numbers matching those on the back of bank or credit cards, making them appear legitimate.

Callers claim the recipient's account has been compromised and pressure them to provide personal and banking information to resolve the issue.

Such high-pressure tactics aim to steal sensitive information.

To protect yourself:

• If you receive a call about compromised personal information, note the details and hang up.

• Do not share personal details like your name, social insurance number, or address.

• Be aware of caller ID spoofing; do not rely on call display to verify a caller's identity.

• If concerned about your information, contact the institution directly using a verified number or visit in person.

• Resist pressure and avoid quick decisions, regardless of the caller's persuasiveness.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted or has shared information in error should contact their local police service and financial institution.

For more on fraud prevention, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

If you have information about this scam, contact Strathcona County RCMP at 780-467-7741 or your local police.

To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online, or through the P3 Tips app available on the Apple App Store or Google Play.