Escort Services Fraud

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RCMP RELEASE:

Aug.9, 2022

Grande Prairie RCMP investigate online frauds

Grande Prairie, Alta.- Since the beginning of June, Grande Prairie RCMP have received multiple reports of escort services frauds. The victims have reported that after making initial contact online, they start to receive threatening text messages demanding more money or gift cards. The threats range from threatening to send out intimate images of the victim to threats of harm.

The Canadian Anti Fraud center has some tips to protect yourself online:

  • Unless you know the person offline, there is no way to confirm who is on the other end
  • Trust your instincts, be skeptical and cautious
  • Never send money to someone you have not met
  • If you are being threatened, immediately stop all communication and DO NOT comply with the threat. In other words, never pay money and never send any additional images. The situation will NOT get better by doing either of these things.
  • Report the incident to your local police

Visit https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/scams-fraudes/extortion-extorsion-eng.htm for more information on crimes like these.