RCMP warn public of cell phone return scam

September 10, 2026 - Nanaimo, British Columbia
From: Nanaimo RCMP

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Nanaimo file # 2026-28609

The Nanaimo RCMP is warning residents about a scam targeting people who have recently received new cell phones through legitimate service providers.

Police have received several reports of victims obtaining a new phone through a carrier promotion, only to be contacted days later by someone claiming to represent the provider. The caller advises that the wrong device was shipped and asks the customer to return it using a prepaid shipping label provided by email.

Believing they are dealing with their service provider, victims send the phone back. They later discover the shipping label directed the package to a private address or mail drop rather than the telecommunications company, leaving them without the device and potentially responsible for its cost.

In one recent Nanaimo incident, a resident received a new smartphone through a legitimate promotion and was later contacted by someone claiming to be from the provider. The victim was instructed to return the device using a prepaid shipping label. After sending the phone, the victim learned the package had been directed to an unauthorized address, and the phone was not returned to the provider.

"The source of the information being used by the fraudsters is unknown; however, victims have reported that the scammers appeared to know details about recent cell phone purchases and deliveries," said R/Cst Gary O'Brien, Nanaimo RCMP Media Relations Officer. "We encourage anyone contacted about returning a recently purchased device to independently verify the request with their provider before taking any action."

How to protect yourself:

• Always contact your service provider using a verified phone number before returning any device.
• Be suspicious of return instructions sent from free email accounts or addresses containing spelling errors.
• Verify shipping addresses independently rather than relying on information sent by email or text.
• Never provide personal or account information unless you have confirmed who you are speaking with.
• Monitor your credit and financial accounts if you believe your personal information has been compromised.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam is encouraged to contact their service provider immediately and report the incident to their local police. The incident can also be reported to the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345. 

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