Saskatoon Poppy Campaign warns of text message poppy scam

The poppy has become a symbol of honour and respect, but recently it’s been used in a scam.

Some people in the province have received text messages asking them to buy a poppy.

In the text message a phone number is included, that number is the poppy campaign’s landline but the campaign said it never advertises the campaign or the number, and would never text you.

Screenshot of the poppy scam text. (submitted)

Malcolm Young, campaign spokesperson said the popularity of the poppy symbol has led to this.

“Some people try to take advantage of the emotion attached to the poppy and the sacrifice it represents, by trying to sell them online or over the phone,” said Young. “Don’t fall for the scam.”

Young also said this is one of the downsides to a day and age where social media and technology are so prevalent.

“Sadly in the digital age… one of the outcomes is that people try to scam,” said Young. “Everybody who picks up a poppy (or) makes a donation is doing that as a sign of respect.”

Young said it’s disheartening to see people take advantage of such an important symbol.

The best way for you to get a poppy is still in person.

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“There’s hundreds of businesses in our community that provide the poppy boxes,” said Young. “You’ll be able to pick up poppies at the mall.”

Young said if you are unable to get one in person there are safe alternatives to getting one.

“If you need to, contact your Royal Canadian Legion or Anavets branch and they’ll have poppies there as well,” said Young.

The Anavets branch is the Army, Navy and Air Force veterans branch.

Saskatchewan RCMP said they haven’t heard about this specific scam yet.

The Poppy Campaign also said if you receive one of these texts you should delete it immediately.