Kamloops RCMP predict Fortis B.C. phone scam will be back as temperatures drop

KAMLOOPS – A scam that has surfaced on and off over the years in a variety of forms could be back in Kamloops this winter.

Kamloops RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jodi Shelkie says a phony Fortis B.C. phone call scam has the potential to rob residents of their hard earned money.

“Some people call and say ‘I’m from Fortis and you’re way behind on your gas bill. If you don’t pay it we’re going to cut off your gas immediately’,” Shelkie says.

This can cause homeowners to panic, she says, with residents believing they will have their gas shut off and have their house become cold in the winter.

“They’ll ask for a prepaid debit card or something,” Shelkie says, “It’s better (for them) if they have a prepaid credit card.”

Shelkie says there are steps people can take to protect themselves from scammers.

“Even if they do call, just say ‘I’m going to call back and ask for accounting and speak to them,” Shelkie says.

Last summer, Fortis B.C. sent out a news release about the scam.

“The call can take a variety of forms, but most commonly, the customers are instructed to use a prepaid credit card,” the release said. “Fortis B.C. will not contact customers in any way, including by email, asking for their credit card numbers, social insurance or similar personally identifiable information. “

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