Kamloops RCMP remind public not to give personal information over the phone

KAMLOOPS — Police in Kamloops are reminding the public to be cautious of unknown callers asking for personal information over the phone.

Kamloops RCMP say they have received a series of complaints from people regarding phone scams, according to an RCMP media release issued today, July 23.

The scammers have been calling from an Ontario phone number and say they are calling from Service Canada, adding the individual's social insurance number has been compromised.

"They ask for the individual to confirm the last three digits of their SIN and then the scammers go on to read an 'affidavit' stating there are charges against the person," Kamloops RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jodi Shelkie says in the release.

There are variations of the phone call, Shelkie says. In one case, a person was given an officer's name and badge number when it was requested. Another person was told there was an abandoned vehicle located in Regina with their SIN in it and the vehicle had been involved in a serious crime.

"Never give personal information over the phone. If you received a phone call asking for personal information, hang up," Shelkie says. 

Scams can be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or by calling 1-888-495-8501. If you have been a victim of a fraud, contact the RCMP.

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