With fraud up significantly in the Kelowna area, the RCMP is urging residents to be more aware.
Fraud jumped 56 per cent from January to August this year compared to the same period in 2022 according to RCMP Superintendent Kara Triance.
Tap fraud, communication, and online scams were the top three drivers.
“When I say tap fraud…if your wallet or purse or items of identity are stolen or lost, please ensure that your bank is notified immediately, but also that the police are called.”
Triance added that if you receive notice that a family member or friend is in trouble and asking for money, to question it.
“Reach out to family members or friends directly.”
She said she received two such calls in one day.
“These are very normal calls to get and we encourage you to hang up and not answer those calls or delete those emails.”
Triance said she is also seeing more scams through online marketplaces, although police did make a significant bust recently.
“An individual was arrested for over $15,000 in fraudulent transactions with the intent to defraud the victim for the sale of goods.”
Triance encouraged residents and business owners to learn more about being fraud-aware by visiting the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
READ MORE: Kelowna RCMP warn of an increase in fraud, scams
READ MORE: Social disorder among reasons for increase in RCMP calls for service in Rutland
