E-Comm is urging the public to stay alert following reports of phone scams involving caller ID spoofing. Fraudsters are disguising their phone numbers to appear as police non-emergency lines across British Columbia in attempt to gain trust and obtain personal information.
How the Scam Works
Scammers use technology to make it look like they are calling from a legitimate police non-emergency number. This tactic is designed to earn your trust and convince you to share sensitive information.
Remember: Police will never call you unexpectedly to request personal or financial information over the phone.
Tips for preventing caller ID scams
- Never provide personal details, such as your banking information, Social Insurance Number (SIN) or passwords, over the phone.
- If you are unsure, or something feels off, hang up immediately and call your local police non-emergency line to confirm. Visit nonemergency.ca to find your local 10-digit number.
- Note: do not call back using any number provided to you by the caller.
- Do not be intimidated by any demands made by the caller. Police will never threaten, pressure or attempt to extort you if you do not comply with a caller’s demands.
What to do if you’ve been targeted
- If you believe you have been the victim of this scam and have shared personal identity information, financial information, and/or sent money, please report it to police by calling your local police non-emergency line.
- If you suspect your banking information has been compromised, contact your financial institution immediately. Additionally, notify Equifax to alert lenders that you may be a victim of fraud.
- If you have received a fraudulent phone call, but have not provided personal information or sent money, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by calling 1-888-495-8501.
Please share these tips with your loved ones.