News release
PEI RCMP: Frauds of the Week – Protect Yourself from Scammers
December 2, 2025
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PEI RCMP Headquarters, Prince Edward Island
From: Prince Edward Island RCMP
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The PEI RCMP continues to receive reports of fraud — and research shows that only about 5% of frauds are ever reported. This week alone, we received nine new reports. To help protect Islanders, we’re highlighting some of the scams currently circulating in our communities.
Recent Fraud Reports:
GIFT CARD SCAM
A retailer received a text from someone pretending to be a supervisor and asking for gift card numbers to “cover a store expense.”
Reminder: If anyone asks for gift card information, it’s a major red flag. If you know the person, verify their identity through another method. If you don’t — it’s almost certainly a scam.
TIMESHARE SCAM
A victim lost thousands after attempting to buy a timeshare. Scammers may pose as buyers or sellers and will always “need more money” to complete the process.
Be extremely cautious with anything timeshare-related and do your research thoroughly.
CRYPTO INVESTMENT SCAM
Crypto scams continue to be common and costly. Victims respond to ads, emails, or links and see fake “profits” on fraudulent investment sites — encouraging them to invest more. It is easy to send money to the account but impossible to withdraw.
Only trade crypto on trusted, reputable platforms, and remember that fake websites can even have fake reviews.
GRANDPARENT SCAM
A scammer contacted a victim pretending to be a family member in trouble and urgently needing cash.
Always verify through other means before sending money and talk to your family members to help protect them from this scam.
Common Red Flags to Watch For
- Payment requested in Bitcoin or gift cards
- Legitimate businesses and government agencies will never ask for these methods.
- Urgency or high-pressure tactics
- Scammers rely on panic to stop you from thinking clearly.
- Unexpected contact
- If you didn’t initiate the conversation, be cautious. Hang up and call the organization back using an official number.
If you suspect fraud, do not engage with the scammer and just hang up. If you are a victim of fraud report incidents to your local police detachment or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.