Wiley 101-year-old sidesteps telephone scam targeting Victoria seniors

VICTORIA – Victoria Police are applauding a 101-year-old city resident for helping to alert others to a telephone scam that had already ensnared at least two fellow seniors.

Officials say the elderly woman notified staff at the James Bay New Horizons Centre about an aggressive phone call from a person claiming to represent the Canada Revenue Agency.

The caller claimed the senior had outstanding taxes and was about to be prosecuted unless she paid an immediate, reduced fine.

Police say CRA officials never discuss fraud issues or threaten arrest over the phone, but staff at the centre discussed the elderly woman’s complaint with local residents and learned the scammers had defrauded two other seniors.

One lost $600, while another was tricked out of $450, half her monthly rent, although investigators say staff at the New Horizons Centre gathered the funds to cover the rent.

Police say families should discuss this scam with older relatives and friends and file a report if any other victims are located.