Fake bank drafts have surfaced in Richmond in conjunction with online purchases, and resulted in three fraud victims losing $50,000 in goods – two purses and a diamond ring.
Richmond RCMP are warning the public to be vigilant after receiving these three reports last week involving fraudulent bank drafts.
“We have reason to believe these three investigations are linked,” says Cpl. Adriana O’Malley, Richmond RCMP media relations officer.
“We don’t want to see anyone else fall prey to this type of fraud which is why we are issuing this public warning.”
The first two alleged frauds took place on Dec. 8, but weren’t reported to police until Dec. 12 when the victims learnt the bank drafts were fake.
According to the first victim, she was selling her purse online and had been given a bank draft as payment. After cashing it, she was advised by her bank that it was a fake.
The second victim was selling a diamond ring online and was also given a bank draft as payment. He, too, was advised by his bank that it was a fake.
The third alleged fraud took place on Dec. 11 and was reported on Dec. 14, again after the victim learnt the bank draft was fraudulent.
According to the third victim, she was also selling her purse online. But on cashing the bank draft, the bank told her it was a fake.
Some ways to protect yourself against this type of fraud include:
- Confirming the authenticity of the bank draft by contacting the issuing financial institution before completing the transaction;
- Meeting the buyer at a legitimate financial institution and observing the bank draft being ordered;
- Ensuring the draft has cleared and has been confirmed prior to releasing the item to the buyer.
Anyone who may have information regarding these files is asked to call Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crimestoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visit them online at www.solvecrime.ca.
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