Alberta RCMP warn public of rising ‘bank investigator’ scam

A new wave of “bank investigator” scams is targeting Albertans, with fraudsters impersonating trusted organizations to gain access to victims’ personal and financial information.

Alberta RCMP say scammers have posed as representatives from banks, law enforcement, Amazon, and credit bureaus, claiming accounts have been compromised and urging immediate action.

Some calls appear to come from legitimate institutions, using spoofed phone numbers and personal details like names, addresses or Social Insurance Numbers to gain trust.

Tactics reported include:

• Automated calls asking for remote access to victims’ computers

• Requests to transfer money to so-called “safe” accounts

• Tricks to obtain security codes sent via text or email

• Sending someone in person to collect bank cards under false pretenses

How to protect yourself:

• Never share one-time codes received via text or email

• Hang up and contact your bank or service provider directly

• Do not allow remote access to your device

• Remember: no bank, credit bureau or police agency will ever request that you transfer funds for safekeeping or surrender your debit or credit cards

Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted or shared information should report it to their local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.