‘Evolving’ phone scams under investigation, 1 charged: EPS

A series of phone scams impacting people in Edmonton has prompted a warning from police after an Ontario man was arrested in connection with the scheme.

A series of phone scams in the last month involving stolen bank cards has prompted a warning from Edmonton police as they have charged one but continue to look for suspects.

The scam involves someone claiming to be an official bank representative over the phone and telling Edmontonians that their bank cards have been compromised.

People were then instructed to put their cards in an envelope. A driver comes to their home and collects the envelope. Those cards were used for unauthorized purchases or cash withdrawals, according to an Edmonton police news release.

An Ontario man was arrested Thursday and now faces a fraud charge in connection with the scams, which police say have happened throughout Edmonton since March but is still “evolving.”

Edmonton police say they’re still looking for other suspects. In the meantime, they’re offering the following tips for staying safe:

• never share your PIN or personal information over the phone
• verify unexpected calls about your banking accounts in person at your financial institution
• monitor bank and credit card statements monthly for unauthorized transactions

Anyone who believes they may have been victim to a similar scam should contact their bank and call police at 780-423-4567 or file an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.