The Prince Albert Police Service are reminding the public to be aware of a bank fraud (scam) that is being carried out in the community. We have received complaints in the last few days of elderly citizens being contacted by persons claiming to be ‘bank inspectors’. They are told that someone has taken money from their accounts, and internal bank investigations are underway. They are asked to withdraw large sums of money (thousands of dollars) in cash, have the bank teller place it in an envelope, and then meet these ‘bank inspectors’ in a public place where the money is handed off as part of their ‘investigation’. A promise is made that the money will either be returned or placed back into the account, and of course, it never is. If a bank employee inquires about the cash withdrawal they are told to inform them it is for a family emergency.

 

This is an absolute scam, and NOT the way any reputable financial institution does business. NEVER remove any cash from an account thinking you are helping your bank solve any internal issue. Inquire directly with your bank, speak with or take a trusted relative or family friend with you. If you are unsure, CALL THE POLICE.

 

Our seniors have worked too long and too hard for their financial resources to be tricked out of their money by these criminals. Please be aware of this scam, and be cautious.