RCMP NL are warning the public of an iTunes card scam, following a report of a recent incident. The scam begins with a call from someone claiming to be with Visa regarding a Western Union money transfer. The scammer provides a name and employee number and asks the individual to help them in a joint investigation they are conducting with the RCMP about fraudulent bank activity happening within Scotiabank and BMO. In return for helping, the scammer says the individual will be compensated.
The individual is instructed to log in to their computer and provide the scammer with information that enables them to remotely access the computer. Instructions are then sent, via several emails, to purchase iTune cards from various businesses in specific locations. Once the cards are purchased, the individual is to call the scammers back and provide them with the numbers on the back of the cards after they are activated.
For their help with the investigation, the scammers say they will deposit money into the individual's bank account and provides a copy of what appears to be a legitimate bank transaction history showing deposits from the RCMP. One of the emails appears to be a letter from the RCMP explaining the process and the need for confidentiality so as not to jeopardize the investigation. It also requests the individual attend an RCMP Detachment on a particular day for a volunteer's meeting.
The RCMP warn that this is a scam. Scammers continue to come up with new ways to intimidate and to seem believable. The RCMP does not investigate matters in this fashion and will never ask the public to allow RCMP access to their computers. If something seems suspicious, it often is.
If you have received similar telephone calls or know of someone who has, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. If you have been defrauded, please contact your local RCMP Detachment.