Kamloops woman loses over $26,000 to scammers

KAMLOOPS – Scammers have taken $26,500 from a Kamloops woman.

The woman received a phone call letting her know she’d won $250,000 from Publisher’s Clearing House, according to a Kamloops RCMP press release. She was told by the caller he could save her money on taxes through a system involving Money Mart, Canada Post and the Philippines. She agreed and handed over bank account information.

The scammers were able to create the appearance of deposits in her bank account by moving money from her savings account to her checking account.

She sent $26,500 before realizing what was happening.

Kamloops police are warning people to be cautious when told they’ve won money.

“If the person asks you to send money to them to claim the prize or avoid taxes, it’s a scam. If you are asked to provide your credit card number or provide your financial institution information, it’s a scam,” Cpl. Jodi Shelkie says. “If you are asked to pre-pay taxes or any kind of fee, it’s a scam.”

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