News release

Richmond RCMP reminds residents to stay alert to frauds during Fraud Prevention Month.

March 4, 2026 - Richmond, British Columbia
From: Richmond RCMP

Content

Richmond RCMP is urging residents to stay alert to ongoing frauds as March marks Fraud Prevention Month. Investigators continue to see a high number of impersonation-based scams in which fraudsters pose as officials, rely on urgency and fear, and pressure victims into transferring money or handing over cash.

The core message to the public this year is straightforward: If you didn’t initiate it, don’t facilitate it.

“Many scams depend on catching people off guard,” says Sgt. Dave Au of Richmond RCMP Economic Crime Unit. “If anyone contacts you unexpectedly and asks for money, whether through a bank transfer, cryptocurrency, or a courier coming to your door, that’s a red flag. No legitimate agency will demand money in this way.”

Impersonation scams on the rise

Police continue to see cases involving callers who pretend to be from police agencies, financial institutions, courthouses, or loved ones. In many cases, callers may “spoof” numbers and give the impression that they are legitimate, fooling victims into complying with their demands.

The caller will often insist that the matter must be resolved immediately and cannot be discussed with anyone else. “The pressure and urgency is intentional,” says Au. “It’s meant to stop you from verifying the information, which would disrupt the scam.”

Warning signs to watch for

Residents should be cautious of:

• Requests for cash pick-ups, transfers, or payments that you did not initiate
• Calls from individuals claiming to be from law enforcement, government, courts, or banks
• Pressure to keep the matter secret or take immediate action
• Emotional narratives that create panic or confusion

How to protect yourself

• If you didn’t initiate it, don’t facilitate it.
• Hang up and verify any claims using a known, legitimate phone number.
• Never hand over money or personal information to someone who arrives at your door.
• Do not share banking or personal details with unsolicited callers.
• If something feels off, pause and seek advice from someone you trust.

If you are targeted

• If someone is on their way to your home or you feel unsafe, call 9-1-1.
• For non-emergency reports in Richmond, contact 604-278-1212.
• Scam attempts can also be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Ongoing community outreach

Richmond RCMP’s Economic Crime Unit and Crime Prevention Unit conduct regular outreach across the community, including presentations, in-person education sessions, and partnerships with seniors’ groups, businesses, and cultural organizations. These efforts aim to increase public awareness of fraud trends and teach residents how to recognize common scam tactics.

Richmond RCMP encourages residents to regularly share fraud-prevention information with friends and family.

Contacts