Local businesses lose thousands in electronic payment scams

February 11, 2026 - Oceanside, British Columbia
From: Oceanside RCMP

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Oceanside RCMP File #'s 2025-11651 and 2026-1284

Two local businesses have lost tens of thousands of dollars after receiving fraudulent emails requesting changes to electronic payment banking information.

In December and February, two local businesses reported electronic payments made to two different suppliers were never received by the suppliers. In both instances, prior to their invoices being due, the businesses received emails from the suppliers advising their banking information had changed and requested that all payments be made to the new bank accounts.  As the businesses believed the emails were from a trusted supplier, they updated the bank accounts as requested.

In both investigations, it is believed the suppliers’ emails were unknowingly compromised by suspects who requested the local businesses update the electronic transfer banking information.          

Investigators have determined the money from the first report was deposited to a bank account opened with fraudulent identification with the funds subsequently withdrawn from multiple ATM’s. 

While the investigations continue, police are asking that if you ever receive an email asking you to update electronic payment information, please confirm the accuracy of the email by telephoning the sender to confirm their request is legitimate. 

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