RCMP warns B.C. residents about fake letters demanding money in cyber scam

The West Shore RCMP is warning British Columbia residents about fraudulent letters falsely claiming to be from the RCMP's National Cybercrime Coordination Centre in an attempt to extort money from the public.

According to the RCMP, the letters falsely accuse recipients of accessing child sexual exploitation material and demand payment within 24 hours to avoid having their names made public and facing court proceedings. Police said the allegations are fabricated and are intended to intimidate victims into sending money.

West Shore RCMP Media Relations Officer Cpl. Nancy Saggar said Canadian police do not demand money as part of a criminal investigation. She urged anyone who receives one of the letters not to respond, send money, or provide personal or banking information.

Police said the scam relies on fear and intimidation to pressure victims into making payments. Anyone who receives a suspicious letter is encouraged to report it to their local police and verify any claims before taking action.