Police and a local business are warning others of a potential scam.
Local RCMP say they received a report on November 24th of a fraud similar in nature to the “Head Office Spoof”, where the scammer calls a business and tells the employee that they are from head office or management.
Police note the scammer then has the employee complete a series of money transfers as part of a business transaction. They say the scammer is able to provide information about the business or staff that add to their credibility. This information is often taken from the business website or social media.
Swift Current Online received an e-mail from the business themselves on the incident.
“The scammer called the store stating that they were an owner and authorized the staff member to deposit a significant amount of cash into a bitcoin machine because Fedex was on its way to drop off a package,” the e-mail stated. “They also got the staff member to check the expiry dates on the fire extinguisher and informed them that there would be an inspection happening in the upcoming week. The scammer referenced managements name, stating that they were in an online meeting so they couldn’t be reached. The scammers knew information about the location that helped reassure the staff member that what they were being asked to do was authorized.
“The people that are conducting these scams are very good at their jobs. They are very convincing and seem to be able to say all things to make victims believe and trust them.”
The local business said the way Bitcon works means there is a very good chance it will be a loss for their business.
“We want to make sure that people are aware of scams like this happening in our community,” the e-mail added. “Whether that be on a business or personal level. Talk to all your employees, and family members. With the Christmas season upon us people tend to be in a more vulnerable position.”
Police say employees that believe they may be victim of this type of scam should always speak directly with their supervisor or manager through trusted means and advise them of the request.
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