An elderly Vernon, B.C., woman was lured into an investment scam and conned out of thousands of dollars, RCMP said.
The Coldstream resident, who is in her 80s, was contacted by telephone and offered an investment opportunity promising a large return.
“The fraudster went as far as arranging to meet with the victim to pick up payment,” RCMP said in a press release.
“Believing the opportunity was legitimate and too good to pass up, the victim accompanied the individual to the bank and withdrew and willingly turned over several thousands of dollars. Any further loss was prevented when a family member discovered the transaction after it had taken place and contacted police.”
RCMP pointed out that this type of fraud is not new, but the extent this person went to, which included showing up at an elderly person’s doorstep, is “incredibly concerning.”
“Unfortunately, many frauds and scams are targeted at senior citizens who may be more vulnerable as they may be lonely, willing to listen, and more trusting than younger people. Talk to your elderly family members and help make them aware of common scams and what to look out for,” RCMP said.
