Saskatoon police say border services calls are scams

The Saskatoon Police Service is warning people of a scam in which fraudsters are claiming to be from the Canada Border Services Agency.

According to a release from the SPS Economic Crime Section, multiple people have reported they were called and told a parcel or shipment destined for them was stopped at the border because it contained illegal items.

“The fraudsters will frighten victims into believing they have warrants for their arrest and convince them they need to send money to avoid legal consequences,” the release said.

The police said neither the government nor law enforcement agencies will call people demanding money or payment in cryptocurrency. The police suggested talking to friends and family about the call and to check with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

“Fraudsters rely on fear and panic to exploit their victims,” the police said.