The Regina Police Service (RPS) has issued a warning to residents after officers reported an increase of phone scams in the city. Recorded in the past several weeks, RPS says the scam consists of fraudsters convincing victims to call a phone number they provide which is presented as the victim’s bank. Once the victim calls, they are instructed to withdraw funds from their account and immediately send it to a third party as a means of “verifying” the victim’s identity. The victim is then instructed to wait for a courier to arrive or are directed to Bitcoin ATMs to make deposits. The police service reminds residents that your bank will never ask you to withdraw all of your money. Your bank will inquire about large withdrawals for your protection. Organizations such as police, Microsoft, banks, governments (CRA) will never ask you to withdraw funds to resolve “trouble.” RPS noted that if residents are asked to call their bank, they should always verify the phone number by checking the one on the back of your card or on your bank’s official website. “Never share personal information during an unsolicited call and do not be afraid to say no and hang up,” the service said in its warning. “Avoid sending money to anyone you do not know.” The RPS asks anyone who believes they are a victim or suspect they are being defrauded to content the service immediately at 306-777-6500.
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