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West Shore RCMP Warns of ‘Free Phone’ Scam
Police say victims may lose the device and share sensitive information after scammers pose as telecom staff and request returns to an out-of-province PO Box.
- West Shore RCMP is warning residents about a multi-step "bait and switch" fraud scheme where scammers pose as telecommunications staff offering a "free" mobile phone.
- The scheme begins when scammers contact residents claiming they are eligible for a "free" device; shortly after delivery, fraudsters contact victims again claiming the wrong phone was sent by mistake.
- Fraudsters then email a pre-paid shipping label instructing victims to return the device to a box located outside the province, after which the victim loses the device and may have already disclosed sensitive information.
- The RCMP urges residents to be highly skeptical of any unsolicited call, text, or email offering a "free" device, as victims ultimately lose both the phone and may have compromised personal data.
- Authorities advise residents to never share a Social Insurance Number or financial details with unsolicited callers, and to contact companies directly using verified numbers or visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for protection guidance.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources5
Leaning Left3Leaning Right0Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution75% Left
Bias Distribution
- 75% of the sources lean Left
75% Left
L 75%
C 25%
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