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Phone scammers using STARS Lottery to target Innisfail residents

Jan 31, 2018 | 2:38 PM

Innisfail RCMP are advising residents of a reoccurring phone scam targeting local residents that has come to their attention.

In this scam, police say suspects contact potential victims by phone, claiming to be an employee with the STARS Lottery. 

Victims are told they have won a “prize” from the lottery and are asked to make a payment to claim it. 

“Police would like to remind the public that this is a scam and that if you have won something you should never have to pay any money to get your prize,” Innisfail Mounties say in a release.

RCMP advise that:

– If you receive such a call, please do not provide personal information, or make payments or transfer money as this is a scam;

– If you are a victim and have not lost money, hang up the phone immediately and call the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre 1-888-495-8501;

– If you receive a suspicious e-mail soliciting your financial information, advise the bank/agency involved

– If you are a victim of fraud (ie, have lost money), contact your local police, and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

For more information on scams contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or toll free at 1-888-495-8501. If you believe you may be the victim of fraud or have given personal or financial information unwittingly, contact the Innisfail RCMP at 403-227-3342, your local police or Crime Stoppers.