RCMP warn against fraud

Strathcona County RCMP is reminding residents to remain vigilant for fraudulent attempts when opening the front door and while checking e-mail.

While reported fraud-related complaints in Strathcona County have remained relatively stable during the past several years, phishing attempts targeting the vulnerable are still common, including efforts conducted by a group called the travellers, otherwise known as the Gypsy or Irish Pavers.

This distinct cluster of nomads travel to various communities throughout Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan operating as unlicensed contractors.

These groups often target seniors and employ high-pressure sales tactics, hounding their victims until they have received as much money as the scam artist feels they can get out of the victims, a press release issued by the RCMP states.

Potential victims are informed that the individuals are part of a small company working within the neighbourhood looking to provide reduced rates for paving due to leftover asphalt from previous jobs.

After completing only part of the work, the contractors pressure their victims into paying large portions of the agreed price, informing the victims they will return the next day to complete the substandard work. The fraudsters, however, never return and victims are then forced to pay a considerable amount in order to repair the poorly paved area.

Victims may also be informed of renovation services that include painting, roofing, rain gutter cleaning, chimney repair or any other home renovations.

Recurring complaints to local police throughout the provinces often include the main suspect identified as a male referred to as Pat and suspects speaking with a distinctive Irish accent.

Tax Court of Canada fraud

RCMP are also warning against e-mail phishing attempts informing recipients they have been summonsed to appear at the Tax Court of Canada, threatening that a failure to appear in court will result in an arrest warrant on criminal charges, imposing civil sanctions and a suspension of the intended victims drivers licence.

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RCMP warn against fraud