Fraud awareness campaign highlights how to spot common scams

Richmond RCMP has launched a new fraud awareness campaign to educate the public about investment scams, a growing threat that costs residents millions of dollars annually.

At the center of the campaign is a newly released video that educates the public on how scammers operate and provides practical tips on how recognize their tactics to avoid falling victim. The video pulls from real examples, using engaging visuals and commentary from an officer on how to spot red flags.

The video lists three common investment scam tactics:

1. Scam Trick #1: They claim you’ll make big money with little or no risk.
2. Scam Trick #2: They claim to have hot tips or insider information.
3. Scam Trick #3: They use high-pressure tactics designed to force you to make a quick decision.

These scams are calculated and often operate across international borders, says Corporal Michael Ber, Richmond RCMP Economic Crime Unit. Scammers present themselves as legitimate using convincing personas, and apply pressure tactics to compel victims to act quickly. While funds lost to scammers in this way can be difficult to recover, there are instances when it is possible. We urge victims to always report to police immediately.

Recent fraud trends in Richmond

Richmond RCMP Economic Crime Unit (ECU) has noted a troubling rise in fraud schemes both online and offline. Credit card theft remains prevalent, which is often linked to thefts from vehicles or mailboxes. Since April 2025, the ECU has been investigating 8 new reports in a series of in-person credit card scams involving suspects posing as bank employees who attend the victim’s residence to pick up a card they claim is compromised. (See previous news release dated January 22, 2025).

Protecting yourself against fraud

Learning how to recognize common scam tactics is the easiest way to prevent becoming a victim. Residents are encouraged to have regular discussions about fraud trends with their loved ones, and to share the investment scam video with friends and family. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to have regular discussions with children about how to identify scams on electronic devices.

If you have been a victim of a scam or fraud, contact your local police as soon as possible.

If you have received a suspicious text, email, or phone call but have not provided any personal information or lost any money, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or www.antifraudcentre.ca to file a report.