Killarney RCMP emphasize fraud prevention measures after recent fraudulent activity

Numerous types of scams and frauds operating on global, national, and local levels undermine the confidence of Manitobans by stealing their hard-earned money. These crimes are often borderless and have no specific target demographic group.

Over the past several months, the RCMP has received several reports from residents and businesses who have been targeted via the use of pre-paid credit cards and gift cards.

Victims can be targeted via phone call, text message, email or thru social media. They will be asked to purchase prepaid credit cards or gift cards and then to provide the codes in return where the funds are withdrawn from the card.

Businesses should be aware of customers purchasing pre-paid credit cards or gift cards and making large deposits onto them and should question the purchaser on its intended use. If further concerns arise, please contact your local police service immediately.

Please be advised that no government agency, police service or charity organization will request payment in this format. If you receive this type of phone call, please hang up and do not respond to any email or social media post requesting your banking information.

If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud, there are several things you should do:

  • Gather all information you have about the fraud, including documents, receipts, emails and/or text messages.
  • Report the incident to your local police and obtain a police report number that may be requested by your financial institution and/or credit card company.
  • Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or at www.antifraudcentre.ca 
  • and complete a report.

  • In terms of fraud prevention, we encourage everyone to do the following:

  • Monitor your bank accounts and financial statements regularly and report any suspicious transactions.
  • Update your PIN # and any on-line financial institution passwords you use on a regular basis.
  • Monitor your credit history on an annual basis through either Equifax Canada or TransUnion.

  • Prevention is key and every Manitoban needs to do their part in recognizing the signs, reporting it, and stopping it.