Phone scam prompts police to urge caution in Saskatoon

Saskatoon police are warning the public about a new phone scam in the city.

A Thursday afternoon release said officers have received several complaints about people getting calls where a person tells them a family member is in trouble with police.

The caller, often posing as either an officer or lawyer, then tells the victim their family member needs money for either bail or to pay a ticket and provides instructions on how to send money.

Saskatoon police assured the public in the statement it doesn’t contact people in this way.

The release notes if anyone receives a phone call of this nature, they should be cautious and ask “important questions of the caller to verify their identity.”

Police are also recommending they ask the caller for a phone number to call the “relative” in need after they’ve checked with other family members.

Anyone suspecting fraud is encouraged to contact either Saskatoon police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.