The Financial and Consumer Services Commission (FCNB) is warning the public of scammers impersonating enforcement employees from FCNB.
FCNB was made aware of the scam from a Nova Scotia resident, who received a telephone call from a person identifying themselves as Sam Henderson and a Karen Fherwood. Henderson and Fherwood falsely claimed to work for FCNB. The scammers told the person he was a victim of fraud and claimed they were working with Interpol to help recover his money.
The scammers convinced the person to download to his computer an app, which allowed the scammers to take control of his computer and access private information.
FCNB wants to advise the public it will never request remote access to someone’s computer.
FCNB believes this was an attempt at a double dip scam (also called a recovery pitch scam). We believe the scammers had information regarding investments the person had made with an offshore cryptocurrency platform and were using that information to gain access to his personal information and money.
FCNB is reminding the public to protect themselves against frauds and scams. Scammers use a number of tactics to get your financial information or convince you to send them money.
FCNB provides the following tips and red flags to help New Brunswickers recognize and reject this type of scam:
- Never give someone remote access to your computer or laptop.
- Never provide personal information, including credit card, your driver’s license or passport information, without first verifying the authenticity of the person or company asking for it.
- If you feel something is not right, trust your instincts and stop communication with the person.
Those who believe they are a victim of or have been approached by this scam should contact FCNB and their local police or RCMP.
Source: FCNB
