In the past several weeks, the Regina Police Service (RPS) has seen an increase in phone scams claiming victims’ computers are being compromised and they are facing charges if funds are not secured to prove their identity.
In reported cases, fraudsters will convince the victim to call a phone number they provide, which the victim believe belongs to their bank. Once the victim calls, they are instructed to withdraw funds from their account and immediately send it to a third party as a means of verifying their identity and securing their funds.
The victim is then instructed to wait for a courier to arrive, or are directed to Bitcoin machines to make deposits.
The RPS wants to remind citizens to stay vigilant and to remember the following:
- Your bank will never ask you to withdraw all of your money. They will inquire about large withdrawals for your protection.
- Organizations such as police, Microsoft, banks, governments (CRA) will never ask you to withdraw money to resolve “trouble”.
- If you’re asked to call your bank, always verify the phone number by checking the one on the back of your card or on your bank’s official website.
- Never share personal information during an unsolicited call and do not be afraid to say no and hang up.
- Avoid sending money to anyone you do not know.
If you believe you are a victim or suspect someone is trying to defraud you, contact police immediately at 306-777-6500. Please call 911 if it is an emergency.
*March is Fraud Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the impact of fraud and scams on individuals and businesses. The Regina Police Service (RPS) has a dedicated Financial Crimes team that works diligently to investigate all reported frauds and scams. So far, in 2025, victims in Regina have reported losses exceeding $750,000 due to fraudulent activities. Learn more about the RPS Financial Crimes Unit and the common forms of scams here.
