B.C. Girl Guides warn scammers are pretending to have cookies for sale online

The B.C. Girl Guides are warning people to be careful about who they buy their cookies from.

As B.C. Girl Guides begin their fall cookie fundraiser, they’re also warning the public not to fall for scammers who claim to be selling the chocolatey mint treats on social media.

“We’ve become aware, recently, of a couple of reports or suggestions that people have been in local discussion groups and neighbourhood groups on Facebook trying to sell Girl Guide cookies, receive e-transfers for them, who have nothing to do with Girl Guides and, as far as we can tell, do not have any cookies in their possession,” said Diamond Isinger, the organization’s provincial spokesperson, in an interview with CTV News on Monday.

In a news release announcing the start of cookie sales, B.C. Girl Guides said they’re aware of scam attempts on Vancouver Island and in the Kootenays.

The organization advised the public to purchase cookies from girls and volunteers directly. Information on upcoming sales can be found on the cookie finder on the Girl Guides website.

Girl Guides began selling cookies in 1927, and the biannual sales continue to be the organization’s main source of funding.

Cookies cost $6 per box, and proceeds help fund science and art projects, outdoor adventures, international travel and more. Cookie funds also help subsidize the participation of girls in need, ensuring no girl is turned away.