After Caller Fraud Attempt Failed, Swatting Incident Followed.
Colchester County District RCMP is investigating a swatting incident linked to a fraud attempt in Lower Truro.
On October 23, at approximately 9:45 a.m., Colchester County District RCMP received information from Truro Police Service that a woman had reported being held hostage by three armed individuals at a residence on Tideview Dr.
RCMP and Truro Police Service officers responded immediately and located the woman safe at the home.
Officers learned the report stemmed from a fraud attempt. The woman had received a call from someone claiming to be from her bank’s fraud department regarding alleged fraudulent activity and was instructed to download an application to her cell phone.
Before taking any action, the woman consulted with a friend who advised her to contact her bank directly. When the caller realized she was not complying with the instructions, they became agitated, called her back, and indicated there was a surprise waiting for her at her door. When the woman looked outside, she saw a large police presence.
The investigation is ongoing.
“This incident highlights how far scammers are willing to go when their schemes are challenged,” says S/Sgt. Marc Rose, Colchester County District RCMP. “By falsely reporting an armed hostage situation, they caused a significant deployment of police resources for an event that never occurred. We commend the victim for taking the time to verify the information she received and encourage others to do the same when contacted about suspected fraud.”
Anyone who has been a victim of fraud, or who has information about fraudulent activity, is asked to contact their local police. To remain anonymous, contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.
For more information about common frauds and how to protect yourself, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm
Source: RCMP Release
