Strathcona County RCMP warn public of wallet theft and bank impersonation scams

October 7, 2026 - Strathcona County, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

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Strathcona County, Alta. – Strathcona County RCMP are warning residents about a sophisticated scam involving the theft of wallets and purses, followed by fraudulent calls from individuals impersonating financial institution employees.

The RCMP are reminding residents that losing a wallet can put more than credit cards at risk. In some cases, suspects may use stolen banking information to target victims with follow-up phone calls designed to obtain personal banking information, including PINs and verification codes.

Suspects may steal wallets or purses using distraction techniques or pickpocketing including in busy public places such as restaurants, cafés and retail locations. Shortly after the theft, the victim may receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from their financial institution’s fraud department. The caller may use a spoofed phone number that appears legitimate and may create a sense of urgency and claim they are trying to protect the victim’s account. They may then ask for a PIN, password, verification code or other banking information. Once the suspect has obtained the necessary information, they may attempt unauthorized ATM withdrawals, purchases or other fraudulent transactions.

Strathcona County RCMP are sharing the following tips:

• Avoid placing your wallet or purse in an easily accessible location. When shopping, dining or in other public places, keep your belongings secured within sight and close to you. 
• Never provide your PIN or password over the phone. Legitimate financial institutions will not ask you to disclose your PIN.
• Don’t trust the caller ID. A phone number can be spoofed to appear as though it belongs to your bank.
• If you receive a suspicious call, end the call and contact your financial institution by attending in person, using the official number on the back of your bank card or through its official website or banking app.
• Turn on transaction alerts. Real-time notifications can help you identify suspicious activity quickly.
• Act immediately if your wallet is lost or stolen. Freeze or cancel your cards through your banking app or by contacting your financial institution.
• Monitor your accounts. Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for transactions you don’t recognize.

“Having your wallet stolen is stressful enough without then receiving a phone call from someone claiming they can help protect your accounts,” says Cst. Cheri-Lee Smith, Strathcona County RCMP Public Information Officer. “If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact your financial institution directly using a trusted number or by attending in person.”

Anyone who believes they have been the victim of a wallet theft or fraud should contact their financial institution immediately to secure their accounts and report any unauthorized transactions. Victims should also report the theft or suspected fraud to their police of jurisdiction.

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