The Richmond RCMP are once again warning about fraudsters allegedly selling fake gold and fake jewelry in Richmond with four cases recently surfacing.
“Unfortunately, these types of frauds resurface periodically in our community,” said Cpl. Adriana O’Malley, Richmond RCMP media relations officer. "We are issuing this public warning to bring awareness and educate people in the hopes of preventing further victimization."
In recent incidents, the suspects have employed two particular techniques.
Firstly, they use verbal inducements, such as playing on a person’s emotions or selling the gold at a low price, that convinces the victim to buy the gold.
Secondly, they're using sleight of hand where the suspect places the fake jewelry onto the victim and then removes the victim’s actual jewelry along with the fake items.
The suspects committing these frauds can be very persuasive, often using stories that prey on the victim’s compassion to give money, according to O'Malley.
These stories can include needing money to feed their family. The suspects may also have their family, including children, present to add to the emotional pressure.
Police caution against going anywhere with the suspects, including to a bank or nearby ATM. RCMP recommend just walking away and then calling police when it's safe to do so.
To date, Richmond RCMP have received four reports involving this fraud type.
"This is an example of 'If it seems too good to be true it definitely is.' We can’t stress enough if someone approaches you on the street offering to sell you gold or jewelry, regardless of their explanation, say no and walk away," O’Malley said.
Richmond RCMP encourages all victims of fraud to come forward and report these incidents to the police of jurisdiction.
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