Lloydminster RCMP warn public of ‘Emergency Scam’

Lloydminster, AB – Lloydminster RCMP is advising the public that there has been an increase in the number of “Emergency Scams” reported to the detachment this month. These scams are referred to as Emergency Scams, or sometimes “Grandparent” or “Grandchild” scams.

These scams often involve a phone call being placed to the victim, claiming a loved one is hurt or in trouble with the courts or law enforcement, and payment is needed to help them. The suspects will often pretend to be a police officer, judge, or family member. Suspects will usually ask for payment in cash, an e-transfer, gift cards or Bitcoin. 

Lloydminster RCMP wants to remind citizens of the following: 

• Bail is always paid in person at a courthouse or correctional centre
• Never send money to anyone you don’t know
• If a person claims to be a police officer or judge, call that police service or courthouse directly to confirm the situation
• Never give out personal information over the phone or online to someone you don’t know 

For more Lloydminster RCMP-related news, visit Lloydminster.ca/RCMPnews.

Distributed on behalf of the Lloydminster RCMP.