Merritt RCMP warn residents of another scam

The RCMP are again warning residents of a new text scam; this time involving them.

This past weekend both Kamloops RCMP and Kelowna RCMP issued warnings to the public to bogus text messages allegedly from the RCMP that “falsely stated they were unable to deliver court documents.”

Merritt RCMP staff Sgt. Josh Roda says these types of scams are becoming more elaborate and believable, and warns those in the local area to contact them immediately before  responding to the text.

“If the message asks you to  click a link to view your file or the charges, please don’t,” warned Roda. ” This action could allow scammers to access personal information including banking details, health portals and more.”

This latest texting scam is just one of many that have been reported over the past few weeks. Others includes notices from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), BC Hydro, Canada Post and banking institutions.

“If you are not sure if the message is legitimate contact the RCMP or reach out to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online.” Roda added.

Every year millions of dollars are bilked out of victims across Canada with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre reporting 5395 text messages being reported.

“We (RCMP) remain vigilant when it comes to protecting their identity and personal information where it’s a scam text message or a sensational online offer,” Roda noted. “If it seems to good to be true, it probably is.”