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Richmond RCMP warn of fraudulent cheque scheme targeting businesses

By Richmond Sentinel

Published 2:10 PDT, Wed March 20, 2024

Richmond RCMP Economic Crime Unit is warning businesses in our community of an emerging scheme. Criminals are specifically targeting cheques from a cluster of businesses north of Cambie Road between No. 6 Road and Viking Way. These businesses suffered losses in the tens of thousands of dollars through fraudulent activity.

The criminal or criminals appear to be targeting business cheques that are being mailed using a Canada Post mailbox located near the businesses. Through our investigation, we have learned that the cheques are intercepted, fraudulently deposited, then cashed, all unbeknownst to the issuing business. It is only after some time has passed, before the payee informs the issuing business that their account has an outstanding balance due to the not receiving the cheque.

The businesses of Richmond are an essential part of safe and prosperous community says Corporal Melissa Lui, NCO i/c Economic Crime Unit / Organized Crime Unit. We have built many strong partnerships with local businesses throughout the years. We are committed to safe guarding our business partners, thoroughly investigating corporate cheque fraud, and relaying any schemes that we discover. By staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activities, you are aiding in our efforts to combat this crime effectively adds Cpl. Lui.

We strongly encourage the use of a physical post office for mailing any corporate cheques or by using a courier service. This simple precaution can significantly reduce the risk of your cheques being intercepted.

We are working closely with security personnel at Canada Post in our investigation.

If your business has been targeted by this cheque fraud scheme, please report it promptly to the Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212.

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