A Kelowna woman believed she was helping with a criminal fraud investigation
Federal investigators have intercepted packages containing $40,000 in cash destined for the Lower Mainland.
A Kelowna woman had sent the money after being led to believe she was helping with a criminal fraud investigation.
Phone scammers posing as bank employees told the woman her financial accounts had been compromised and that they were working with the RCMP to track the culprit.
"Under the direction of the suspects, the victim downloaded software applications to her computer, which authorities believe allowed remote access to the woman's computer and in turn her online banking information," said Corporal Jesse O'Donaghey.
They convinced her to withdraw $40,000 in cash and buy $38,000 worth of Google Play gift cards with money that was mysteriously being deposited into her bank account.
As it turns out, the money was being transferred from her other accounts and credit cards.
“It’s important for the general public to know that the RCMP would never ask someone to cooperate in a police investigation in this manner, nor would a victim be offered financial compensation,”
Fortunately, investigators with the Federal Serious and Organized Crime section were able to intercept the cash before it was delivered. The investigation into the scam is ongoing.
“RCMP also encourage the public to consider verifying a police officer’s identity, if they are dealing with them over a phone. It can be as simple as calling their detachment’s non-emergency line or their police dispatchers.”
