Swindlers using Vernon RCMP phone number in latest scam, police say – Okanagan

Police in the North Okanagan are warning residents to be wary of a phone scam featuring fraudsters impersonating RCMP members.

Vernon RCMP says it has reports of swindlers trying to lure unsuspecting residents into providing personal information, and, in some cases, large sums of money.

“What is particularly concerning in these recent reports, and makes the fraud even more convincing, is the phone number is being spoofed or altered to display a trusted phone number,” said police.

Police said in this case, fraudsters are using the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP’s non-emergency line, and residents could be tricked into thinking they are receiving a call from the RCMP.

“The RCMP will never request monetary payments, or ask for personal information such as social insurance numbers, bank or credit card information, garage door codes, or alarm…