Police continue to combat ever-evolving landscape of scams

The Estevan Police Service is stressing the importance of speaking with family members about scams after an elderly person was defrauded of thousands of dollars by a supposed Facebook friend.

The victim was told they would receive a gift if they purchased iTunes gift cards and forwarded the numbers to another Facebook profile. It wound up costing the victim $3,000 to $4,000.

"Unfortunately these types of scams tend to victimize the elderly," said EPS Const. Danielle Stephany.

The scams come in many forms, through a variety of channels. Police were also alerted on Thursday to a scam attempt sent through the mail where the target was told they were a beneficiary to an overseas estate.

"Talk with your family and especially your elderly parents," said Stephany. "Technology is a wonderful thing, but it also opens the doors to all of these scams that can potentially take place. We've all heard about the grandson or the granddaughter that's in trouble, and then an accident. And that scam went around for a while that they need money. And it seems to target the elderly the most."

Stephany said if someone is asking for money for you to claim a prize, it's a scam.

Some scams resurface, such as those posing as Revenue Canada around income tax time.

Stephany said money can't be recuperated once someone falls victim to a gift card scheme. But watchful eyes in the community have helped curb its effectiveness.

"A lot of businesses in town are really good at calling us when elderly are coming in to buy iTunes cards or Google Play cards so that we can go there and assist and ensure that they aren't being scammed."

She explained that some businesses' policies prevent employees from stopping customers from buying gift cards even if it seems like they might be victims of a scam. 

Sometimes, however, police can get there in time - especially if an employee can delay the transaction. And businesses informing police can help promote public awareness.

Stephany added that they probably only hear about a small portion of people being scammed in the community, as it can be embarrassing for victims.

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