Richmond RCMP is warning the public about an increase in reports of scammers posing as police officers to get bank and credit card information. 

In one recent file, a resident received a call from an unknown woman claiming to be a police officer and provided their credit card information, resulting in fraudulent transactions totalling more than $1,000.

These scammers use caller ID spoofing, so the call often appears to come from a real police phone number. During the calls, victims are told that someone is trying to defraud them and that police need their card information to prevent further fraudulent activity.

“Police will never ask for your credit card information, banking details, or PIN over the phone, for any reason,” said Corporal Eddie Chow of the Richmond RCMP . “If an agency calls you and asks you for financial information, hang up. You can always call back on a number you look up yourself. That check costs nothing and it stops the scam.”

Richmond RCMP reminds residents:

• Treat any unexpected call asking for card, banking, or PIN details as a scam, even if the number looks legitimate. Caller ID can be faked.
• Verify before you act. Hang up and call back on a number you look up yourself. Do not trust the number given to you or that you see on display or on call records.
• Speak with a trusted friend or family member before you share anything.
• Pass it on.  The more people who know how these calls work, the fewer of them succeed.

If you’ve already shared your information:

• Call your bank or credit card provider right away. They can stop transactions, reverse charges, and replace your card.
• Report it to your police of jurisdiction.
• Report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or antifraudcentre.ca.

These scams can target anyone. Talking about them with the people around you is the best protection.