Scammers have been targetting elderly store customers in St. Albert, preying on their compassion by claiming they have no money for baby food and diapers, say RCMP.
A local business on May 27 reported that two females had been approaching customers, most of them elderly, convincing them to buy the baby goods, police said in a recent news release. After the women were given the gifts from the victims, the pair would take the receipts and return the items for money.
Investigators say the women take advantage of the generosity of seniors, making thousands of dollars from the scam. St. Albert RCMP encourage citizens who want to help people in need to donate to local charities that support those who need such assistance. Those who have been a victim of fraud or would like more information various fraud scams in Canada can visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
St. Albert RCMP also encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to the RCMP Detachment at 780-458-7700. Those who see a crime in progress can dial 911. Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.