Edson RCMP warn businesses of credit card phone scam

Edson RCMP is warning area businesses after fraudsters have attempted to purchase goods with stolen credit cards.

Suspects will attempt to complete transactions over the phone and provide credit card information for payment. Suspects will mention that the purchase might need to be done in more than one transaction or offer up an additional card if the transaction does not go through. Once payment has been established for the item the suspects are arranging for third parties to pick up the items including legitimate companies.

Businesses can take the following steps to protect themselves against these transactions with stolen credit cards:

- Check with the credit card company for details of the transaction and ensure names match. - Ask for valid government identification from those using credit cards.

- Make efforts to know who you are talking to

- If the transaction seems suspicious, it probably is. Trust your instincts.

Residents are reminded to remove their identification and credit cards from their vehicles and ensure they are kept in a secure place. If your credit card has been lost or stolen, contact your credit card provider immediately to report the issue.

Edson RCMP are requesting anyone with information regarding these incidents to contact them at 780-723-8822 or call your local police. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), by internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by SMS (check your local Crime Stoppers www.crimestoppers.ab.ca for instructions).