(File photo/battlefordsNOW)

By Roger White

FRAUD SCAMS

Tis the season to beware of holiday scams or fraud

Nov 20, 2023 | 10:00 AM

Christmas is supposed to be “the most wonderful time of year”.

A time when our thoughts and cares turn to spending time with family and friends, festive meals, presents, and a sense of peace and caring within one’s heart.

However, it’s also the most lucrative time of the year for fraudsters looking to scam Battleford and area residents out of their holiday cheer.

RCMP Cpl. Josh Trefry told battlefordsNOW that it’s everyone’s responsibility to be weary of offers too good to be true.

“There’s an old adage that if it’s too good to be true, it probably is,” said Cpl. Trefry. “We [RCMP] encourage everyone to do your research before you make that online purchase or donation.”

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The Canadian Fraud Centre reports that as of June 30, there have been 32,458 reports of fraud across the country this year, resulting in $283.5 million lost to fraud.

Trefry reminds holiday shoppers that its buyers beware when it comes to online purchases.

“You really are taking a chance when you buy any product from on online marketplace or from some stranger you have never met before,” he added. “We often get reports of someone e-transferring the money to a seller of a product and then never hearing or seeing that person ever again.”

Trefry cautioned buyers to never to pay for a product before you actually physically see it in person. The same advice holds true when it comes to telephone or door-to-door soliciting during the holidays.

“Always ask to see identification if someone comes to your door looking for a donation,” Trefry warned.” If it is a reputable organization, the volunteers who represent these groups will have the proper documentation.”

Trefry advised residents that if they have any questions or concerns about an offer they have received from a telephone solicitor, they should discuss it with friends and family or contact their local RCMP detachment.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com