**** RCMP Media Release
RCMP warn of scams involving money orders
Halifax District RCMP is warning the public about two scams involving money orders reported within 24 hours of each other in the Halifax Regional Municipality.
On March 4, a woman received an e-mail stating she was under investigation by the RCMP for child pornography. Police learned that a letter was attached to the fraudulent e-mail which stated she had to pay $75,000.00 or spend 5 years in jail. Police prevented the woman from being defrauded by explaining to her that the letter and e-mail were scams. Police will never request payment directly from a member of the public.
On March 5, a man received a call from an unknown caller who stated that the man had won money but that he had to mail a $4,000 money order to claim the prize. By reporting the incident to police, Canada Post was able to stop the money order from reaching its destination.
Police are reminding the public to protect themselves against frauds in the following ways:
- Do not send money, gift cards, Bitcoin or anything else of value to someone you’ve never met in-person.
- If you have a feeling that something is not right, it is best to trust your gut and stop communicating with that person.
Scammers can be very persistent and convincing. Being defrauded is never the victim’s fault. If you have been defrauded, you are not alone. Please report it to your local police.
