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By Vernon Matters Staff

phoney cop calls

Fraudsters use police number for scam calls

Apr 2, 2025 | 11:52 AM

Kelowna RCMP has received several reports that the detachment’s non-emergency phone number has been used for multiple fraudulent calls where the caller is posing as an officer with a fake badge number.

The fraudsters are then telling their potential victims they’re being investigated for a criminal offence and should provide personal information.

Local police have received nearly 20 complaints from the public and are looking into matters.

In a media release RCMP said when confronted about the legitimacy of the call, the would-be victims are encouraged to search the displayed phone number online and verify for themselves.

“We have received nearly 20 calls from would-be victims around the country trying to ascertain the legitimacy of these spoof phone calls,” Cpl. Michael Gauthier, Media Relations Officer, said.

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“Fortunately, because they did in fact call us directly, we were able to confirm these calls as fraudulent and ease their concerns. We are still looking into these incidents and are unaware of any financial loss at this time.”

How to avoid being scammed:

• If you are not expecting a call or do not recognize the caller ID, let the call go to your voicemail;
• Be mindful that scammers can alter their phone number to appear on your display;
• Do not press progress through any automated prompts if you are unsure of the call;
• If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from the Kelowna RCMP or identifying themselves as an officer, you may ask for their name, associated file number and purpose of the call, and call the detachment directly using contact information you know and trust;
• Never provide your personal or financial information over the phone if you did not initiate the call.