Cell Phone Scams on the Rise in Edmonton

Cell phone scams are surging in Edmonton, with victims losing over $600,000. As of December 18, police had received 91 reports of scams involving fraudulent offers of discounted cell phones.

Victims reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to represent Telus, offering cell phones at reduced rates. They were asked to provide their account security codes and passwords to secure the deal.

According to police, scammers use this information to access victims' accounts, order new phones, and have them shipped to the victims' addresses. Once the phones are delivered, scammers instruct the victims to activate them. They then claim the phones are defective and arrange for their return—leaving victims with the financial burden.

Police are urging residents to remain vigilant and to report such scams immediately for assistance.