The Winnipeg Police Service’s Financial Crime Unit has received quite a few reports regarding a new credit card phone scam.
How it works:
A fraudster calls pretending to be your bank, and says your credit card or debit card has been compromised.
As a fix, they tell you to cut up your card but keep the chip (tap feature) and put all the pieces in an envelope. Then they say, they’ll send a courier to pick it up.
Don’t do it.
The fraudsters use the card data to steal funds from your account or make fraudulent purchases. They may be recreating your card or using your credit/debit info on the chip to create fraudulent new accounts.
TIPS:
- “Just hang up”
- Call your bank immediately and determine the true status of your card. Call the number on your card, never use the phone number the caller gives you
- Don’t follow courier/pick-up instructions — Refuse to cut a card for courier pick up; this is a red flag
- Destroy the chip — If you must disable a card, cut through the chip, not just the plastic and dispose of all the pieces
- Protect your info — Never share full account numbers, PINs, or one‑time codes over unsolicited calls.
- Report fraud immediately to
- Bank
- Police online or call non-emergency line 204-986-6222
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501)
Crime prevention is a group effort, spread the word, and remember – if you’re unsure or feel pressured during a call, just hang and verify independently — quick caution can prevent big losses.