Chilliwack RCMP investigating multiple reports of seniors being scammed for bail money

CHILLIWACK — Society’s most vulnerable people are being exploited mercilessly by nefarious scammers who are masquerading as family members, or friends of family members, and asking for bail money.

The Chilliwack RCMP released a statement Tuesday (Feb. 14) advising that they are investigating multiple reports of seniors who have fallen victim to fraud after receiving phone calls from people posing as police officers requesting bail money for a loved one.

In a statement from Chilliwack RCMP Sgt. Krista Vrolyk, Mounties say the bail scam involves fraudsters calling unassuming people (often seniors) advising that a loved one is in police custody and they require bail money in order for their loved one to be released. The fraudster tells the caller that he/she is a police officer and that money is required in order for their loved one to be released. They request either a money transfer or a meeting to receive the funds required to bail their loved one out of jail.

The RCMP want to remind the community that they never, ever solicit funds over the phone. If you receive a call like this, please do not provide the caller with any money or any information. Hang up and call your local detachment. Report the fraud to your local police as well as the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.