**** RCMP Media Release
Nova Scotia RCMP has received reports of phone scams in different parts of the province today and wants to alert the public.
In Inverness County, calls have been reported from 800 numbers and local numbers where the caller states there are issues with the victim’s Social Insurance Number, and unless personal information is provided, the victim could be arrested. The callers tell the victims they are from a variety of federal agencies, then request names, dates of birth, and social insurance numbers.
In Lower Sackville, calls have been received from someone claiming the victim owes money to the government, and they provide the caller with the local RCMP telephone number so that when the person calls for more information, the call goes to the RCMP.
Police are advising anyone who receives a call asking for their social insurance number, or asking for any personal financial information, to request a name and call back number, and verify the institution requesting the information. Some victims did provide financial information. If this occurs, contact your financial institution for advice on how to protect yourself.
Information about common fraud scams can be found by visiting the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s website at http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm
