The Saskatchewan RCMP is advising the public of a text message scam that has been recently reported within Saskatchewan RCMP jurisdiction. Regina Police Service also alerted the public to reports of similar scams received within the City of Regina.
In each report, the complainant received a text message from a sender claiming to be from an escort company, accusing the victim of having used their services without paying. The sender of the text messages then demands payment and advises the victim that if they do not pay, their personal safety or that of their family or friends will be in danger. These text messages have also been accompanied by graphic images of violent scenarios including assaults and homicides.
The Saskatchewan RCMP would like to remind the public to remain vigilant when receiving unsolicited text messages – never provide personal or sensitive information to the requestor and never send money even if the message sounds urgent.
If you or a family member have been contacted by a scammer, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre — even if you didn't give them any money (antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/report-signalez-eng.htm or 1-888-495-8501).
If you or a family member did lose money as a result of fraud, please contact your local police as well as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/report-signalez-eng.htm or 1-888-495-8501).