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Gift card scammers hitting Castlegar

Never buy gift cards when asked to by someone calling on the phone
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Scammers are trying to get Castlegar residents to send them gift cards. Black Press file photo

Is someone asking or forcing you to buy them gift cards?

Gift card scams are happening right now in Castlegar.

Gift card scams often happen over the phone. Scammers pretend to be calling from a company or government agency and threaten victims with fines, bogus fees, or jail time if they don’t send them gift cards.

A legitimate business or government agency will never ask for payment in gift cards.

Local seniors advocate Sandi McCreight says she has heard numerous reports in recent weeks of seniors being coerced to buy gift cards. She has also heard from local store clerks who have been trying to discourage people from purchasing numerous cards.

If this is happening to you or someone you know call the RCMP at 250-365-7721. If you are a senior and need additional support, call Sandi McCreight from IRIS/Better at Home at 250-608-0706.

READ MORE: Baggie with drug residue found near Castlegar elementary school



betsy.kline@castlegarnews.com

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Betsy Kline

About the Author: Betsy Kline

After spending several years as a freelance writer for the Castlegar News, Betsy joined the editorial staff as a reporter in March of 2015. In 2020, she moved into the editor's position.
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