FSJ RCMP warns of Canadian Border Agency scam calls

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The Fort St. John RCMP is warning the public of a phone scam targeting the area regarding the Canadian Border Security Agency.

This week, the RCMP front desk has received numerous calls reporting a phone scam involving an automated voice stating, “Hello, this call is from Canada Border Services Agency. We have received a package with your name on it but it was red-flagged because it contained a suspicious substance. An arrest warrant has been issued in your name. This is a time-sensitive matter. It is urgent to hear back from you before we proceed. Press 1 to speak with our Canada Border Services Agency officer now.”

According to an RCMP release, scammers seem to be using a Caller ID Spoofing technology to appear to be someone they are not, and the caller ID may be displayed as “Canada Border Services Agency” and appears to be from the government.

With so many people shopping online and waiting for packages, the appearance of the call coming from a real source and the threat of being arrested may have individuals follow directions and press 1.

Should residents press 1, the call is then picked up by a real person, the scammer, and a conversation takes place, and in the end, they request personal information to “prove your identity”.

RCMP are sharing this information in hopes of educating the public and hanging up on the scammers to protect personal information. Always make sure to not share any personal information online or over the phone, like birthdates, any banking information, and Social Insurance Number.

Those who have received this call but have not shared any information do not need to call RCMP, however, if you have answered and given your information, please contact the FSJ RCMP at 250-787-8100.