A senior couple in their 80s in Burnaby, British Columbia, has lost almost $300,000 after falling victim to a devastating scam involving fraudsters posing as RCMP officers, police say.
Burnaby RCMP issued a public warning Wednesday, outlining how the elaborate scheme unfolded over several weeks. According to investigators, the couple was contacted by someone claiming to be a police officer, who convinced them their bank account had been compromised.
The scammer allegedly told the victims that their bank had been hacked and urged them to move their money immediately to protect their savings. Believing they were following legitimate instructions from law enforcement, the couple began transferring funds through multiple deposits over an extended period.
Police said the fraudster also instructed the victims not to contact authorities directly, further isolating them and preventing verification. In addition to the money transfers, the couple was reportedly told to purchase gift cards as part of the fraudulent process.
The scam came to light when the couple’s bank advised them to report the matter to police. They officially filed a report on Jan. 28.
Burnaby RCMP is now urging residents, especially seniors and their families, to remain cautious and to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a police officer. Authorities recommend asking for the person’s name and badge number and confirming it by calling the police department they claim to represent.
“It is really despicable when fraudsters use these manipulative tactics to prey upon people, particularly seniors,” said RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Mike Kalanj.
He emphasized that neither police nor financial institutions will ever instruct individuals to transfer money for security reasons.
“If you ever receive a request like this, reach out to your bank directly and report it to your local police,” he said.
Police continue to remind the public that scams targeting seniors are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and awareness remains the strongest defense.