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Nakusp RCMP warn of phone scam

Nakusp RCMP warn residents to be wary of phone scam.

A phone and internet scam has affected a resident of Nakusp, the RCMP said in a recent media release.

After completing an online application, a Nakusp local was offered a job as a mystery shopper for Winners Merchants International L.P.

A cheque was sent to the resident who was instructed to cash it at a local bank and then send the money back to the company by Money Gram and Western Union. The Nakuspian was told that Winners Merchants International L.P. would then evaluate the money wire companies on the basis of their experience with them.

However, the resident quickly realized the situation was a scam before cashing the cheque, and contacted the RCMP, handing over all the information they had received by mail.

"There are no other similar reports to my knowledge in the West Kootenay," said RCMP's Dan Seibel, "As it is an on-line application process, anyone from the public could complete the process from any jurisdiction."

The Nakusp RCMP as well as other detachments are investigating the incident as a case of fraud, and warn the public to be cautious when any company or person requests money to be sent to them.

Anyone who might have any information about this case or others like it are encouraged to call the Nakusp RCMP at 250-265-3677.