News release
Fraud advisory
April 10, 2026
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Salmon Arm, British Columbia
From: Salmon Arm RCMP
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2026-2078
2026-2102
Salmon Arm RCMP are advising the public of a scam where the fraudster claims to be with the Government of Canada and utilizes crypto currency to scam the victims.
In one report on April 8, 2026, a woman received a phone call from someone claiming to be the “deputy in Ottawa” and told her they had evidence she had committed identify theft, which she had not. The fraudsters demanded the victim prove their identity to clear their name by opening a crypto currency wallet and depositing cash into a Bitcoin ATM. The woman followed their instructions and deposited cash into crypto currency wallets, putting her out $11 900.
On April 9, 2026, a man reported receiving a phone call from someone claiming to be with the “Government of Canada Crown Attorney Office,” and claimed his identity was being used for crime. The man also received an email that appeared to be from the Government but was also part of the scam. The man was directed to comply with their investigation to clear his name. The man was instructed to withdraw cash and deposit it into a Bitcoin ATM, and to not tell anyone. The man wisely reported the incident to police, who confirmed it was scam before he lost any cash.
Please see the below links for fraud awareness resources.
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There are resources available for residents to familiarise themselves with the many types of scams there are. A general rule of thumb is if you receive unsolicited phone calls, text messages, or emails from anyone requesting money, personal information, or asking you to sign into any sort of account, it should be treated as a scam. These scams often play on your emotions by appearing time sensitive and push you to make quick decisions. Contact your local police before taking any action if you are unsure.
Cst Andrew Hodges, media relations officer for Salmon Arm RCMP
Associated links
Contacts
Media Relations Officer
Salmon Arm RCMP
andrew.hodges@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
250-832-6044