A cluster of businesses on Cambie Road allegedly suffered losses in "tens of thousands of dollars" due to fraudulently deposited business cheques, according to Richmond RCMP.
Richmond RCMP's economic crime unit issued a public alert on March 20 to warn the public of an emerging fraudulent cheque scheme.
According to police, businesses in the area between No. 6 Road and Viking Way on Cambie Road were affected and the target appeared to be business cheques mailed using a Canada Post mailbox near the businesses.
"Through our investigation, we have learned that the cheques are intercepted, fraudulently deposited, then cashed, all unbeknownst to the issuing business," said Richmond RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Dennis Hwang.
He added the businesses would only find out when payees who didn't receive their cheques informed the businesses of the outstanding balance.
Police are currently working with Canada Post security personnel to investigate the scheme.
Businesses are advised to use physical post offices or courier services when mailing corporate cheques.
"This simple precaution can significantly reduce the risk of your cheques being intercepted," said Hwang.
Businesses targeted by the cheque fraud scheme are asked to report it to the Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212.
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