Kamloops RCMP warn of scams as tax season gets underway

Kamloops RCMP are warning residents to be careful of scams circulating in the area as tax season begins.

RCMP have had reports of CERB, vaccination and even Bitcoin scams that have asked people in Kamloops for personal information or money, according to a media release.

Cpl. Dana Napier with the Crime Prevention Unit says with tax season and vaccine roll out underway, "the environment is primed for fraudsters."

Some Kamloops residents have already fallen victim to some of these scams either by giving personal information or money transfers, RCMP said in the release.

Police are again warning residents to avoid handing out credit card and personal information through email or over the phone to anyone claiming to be a public health employee, police officer or CRA officer.

"Contact the the agency at a number you know is legit, not one provided by the potential scammer. Hang up on phone calls, delete emails you do not recognize and do not click on any links within the email," media relations officer Const. Crystal Evelyn said in the release. "If you click the included link, you will be directed to a fraudulent website and asked to submit your personal information, putting you at risk for identity fraud."

A few reminders from RCMP:

• You won't have an invoice from a company if you don't receive their services.
• Government agencies and banks will not threaten to arrest you, nor will government agencies request payment in Bitcoin, gift cards or e-transfer.
• Government services are free to access.
• Report unauthorized credit applications to an associated financial institution and the credit bureaus, Equifax and TransUnion.

Contact the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre and Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 if you have provided personal information, or lost money or valuables to one of these scams.

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