RCMP warn of Bitcoin ATM scam involving fake government officials

By Mario Prusina Times Editor

Alberta RCMP are warning the public about an increase in fraud reports involving scammers impersonating the Government of Canada or agencies claiming to act on its behalf.

In several recent incidents, victims have been contacted by individuals falsely claiming to represent government agencies and told they are facing arrest, criminal charges or jail time.

The scammers use fear and urgency to pressure victims into transferring money through Bitcoin ATMs, claiming the payment will prevent the alleged legal consequences.

In some cases, suspects communicate with victims through messaging applications such as WhatsApp and provide QR codes to scan at Bitcoin ATMs.

Once scanned, the QR code directs the cryptocurrency payment to an account controlled by the scammer. Because cryptocurrency transactions can be difficult to trace and reverse, victims may have little chance of recovering their money.

Alberta RCMP remind residents that the Government of Canada, law enforcement agencies and legitimate government departments will never demand payment through cryptocurrency, Bitcoin ATMs, gift cards or prepaid credit cards.

They will also not threaten immediate arrest or imprisonment through a telephone call, text message, email or messaging application.

Police say residents should be cautious if they receive a communication that:

• demands immediate payment to avoid arrest, fines or legal action;

• requests that money be withdrawn from a bank account and deposited into a Bitcoin ATM;

• instructs the victim to keep the matter secret from family, friends or financial institutions;

• comes through WhatsApp, text messages or other messaging applications from an unknown individual;

• includes a QR code for a financial transaction; or

• uses threats or intimidation to create panic and prevent the victim from verifying the information.

Anyone who receives such a communication should not send money or cryptocurrency and should not scan QR codes provided by unknown individuals.

RCMP recommend ending the conversation and independently verifying the caller’s identity through official government or police contact information.

Anyone who has disclosed financial information should immediately contact their financial institution.

Fraud attempts can also be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or through its official website.

Alberta RCMP are encouraging residents to discuss these types of scams with family members, particularly seniors and other vulnerable individuals who are frequently targeted by fraudsters.