RCMP warn of scammer email impersonating a Mountie

The signature uses the name of a real Mountie who used to be a public information officer here in Nova Scotia

CITYnews halifax \ Meghan Groff

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RCMP are warning of a recent cyber-scam where the fraudster impersonates a Mountie.

So far, they are aware of it targeting people in at least two provinces.

The email, which is written in French, tells the receiver they are being investigated for fraud, and it requests personal and banking information.

The signature uses the name of a real Mountie who used to be a public information officer here in Nova Scotia.

RCMP say the text looks similar to their official communications, however the e-mail address and phone number included are fraudulent.

The fraudulent e-mail looks like this:

Police say they do not send emails to let people know they’re being investigated, and offered up the following tips for protection against scammers:

• Do not give personal or financial information in response to a request that you didn’t expect;
• If you have a feeling that something is not right, it is best to trust your gut and stop communicating with that person;
• Government agencies or police forces will never demand gift cards or cryptocurrency for payment;
• When in doubt contact the police or government agency by obtaining the phone number or e-mail from the official website.
• Scammers can be very persistent and convincing. Being defrauded is never the victim’s fault. If you have been defrauded, you are not alone.

If you believe you’re the victim of a phone or computer scam, contact local police.

You can also report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online.