Surrey RCMP are warning the public about a scam that uses the communications application WhatsApp in order to steal people's private information.
Within the past few weeks, RCMP state that they have received two separate reports from fraud victims who believed that they were booking low-cost plane tickets on the application. In both instances, the victims had their credit card information stolen after it was shared online. In addition, both victims had seen the advertisements on Punjabi language television and newspapers offering low-cost flights between India and Vancouver.
As they tried to book their flights, the victims were directed to share their personal and credit card details required to make the booking via WhatsApp.
“These incidents are actively being investigated and police are currently looking to identify the individuals involved,” says Corporal Dan Klassen, Surrey RCMP. “This is a new trend of note and we are bringing the details to light so that the public are aware of the scam and can take steps to protect themselves.”
To avoid becoming a victim of this scam, you should take the following steps:
· Never provide personal or credit card details via mobile applications to an unknown third party
· Always book airline tickets through a secure booking website or a licensed travel agent
· Regularly check your credit card statement for potentially fraudulent charges
If you think you or a family member may have been the victim of a similar fraud, it is recommended that you make a report to your police of jurisdiction, to the , and to and to protect your credit score.
Anyone with information about these incidents are asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or Crime Stoppers, if they wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-8477 or .
