Police are warning the public about fake gold and jewelry scams in the Tri-Cities that are tricking people out of money.
Today, Sept. 24, Coquitlam RCMP issued an alert about recent reports of suspects approaching victims in parking lots and asking for cash.
When they decline, the suspects offer to sell them gold jewelry instead.
Detachment spokesperson Cpl. Alexa Hodgins said the suspects can be “persuasive” and use stories to play on the victim’s compassion.
In one report, a victim bought $200 in jewelry that turned out to be fake.
Hodgins urged victims to report the crime.
“Accurate and timely information aids in police investigations while allowing our agency to focus resources where they may have the most impact on public safety,” she stated in a news release.
If you believe you have been defrauded, you're encouraged to call Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 or report it online.
Here are some tips to avoid a scam:
- don’t exchange money with strangers for items
- walk away if the deal sounds “off”
- report suspicious activity to police
For more fraud prevention tips, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
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