Surrey RCMP is reminding the public to be aware of investment scams after a persistent number of reports throughout 2021.

Since January 2021, Surrey RCMP have received 59 reports of fraud involving crypto currency totaling approximately $612,748 lost by unsuspecting victims.

The most commonly reported fraud still remains CRA / Police scams which accounted for 25 of the total reports. The scams usually involve fraudsters attempting to pass themselves off as someone in authority. They may impersonate a police officer or an employee of a business, financial institution or government agency such as the CRA.

The most significant financial losses have resulted from scams related cryptocurrency investments and linked accounts being compromised which totaled $375,200.

A number of the frauds related to Cryptocurrency investments involved victims that willingly transferring funds to unverified sources for the purpose of purchasing Cryptocurrency, most commonly Bitcoin. On multiple occasions victims have interacted with strangers online who suggested the victim download an application to purchase Bitcoin which is later determined to be fraudulent.

Your best defense against becoming a victim is knowledge and awareness. If you choose to purchase any kind of Cryptocurrency, ensure that you use a major trading platform or online exchange. Be aware that Cryptocurrencies are not insured and if your money is stolen, you will not be reimbursed, says Cst. Brad Charpentier of Economic Cybercrime Section.

This is a reminder for everyone to be vigilant, don’t provide your personal information to people who call, email or text you. Use strong passwords and security questions on your email and all online accounts.

Signs of a scam

• Unsolicited phone call, email or text.

• Urgent or threatening language used.

• Request for personal information such as name, address, birthdate, social insurance number, credit card or banking information.

• Serious unfounded claims such as: you will be arrested, a warrant has been issued for your arrest, a lawsuit has been filed against you, you are getting a refund, or you will be deported.

• Demand for payment by e-transfer, pre-paid credit card, gift cards, or online currency (ex. Bitcoin).

• Unknown persons in a chat room suggesting you download a specific app for purchasing Cryptocurrency.

• Unknown persons requesting you invest in their business using Cryptocurrency.