RCMP are warning local businesses to take caution after multiple frauds took place in Innisfail.
The suspects are using fake credit cards, made with stolen information, to complete retail transactions manually by entering the full credit card number and expiry date when the chip in the card doesn't work. When asked for proof of identity, the suspects have either provided fake identification or an interim driver's licence that contains no photo.
Const. Kathy Reddy said she is personally investigating complaints from two businesses located within Innisfail. The fraud was committed at one Innisfail business back in late December while another local business was targeted on two separate occasions – once in January and once in February. The local complaints are among 13 registered between Innisfail and Red Deer, she said last week.
“It's not just Innisfail. It's all over Central Alberta. These guys are hitting up so many different places.”
The RCMP are on the lookout for suspects between 20 and 30 years old, described as Aboriginal or Asian in appearance.
Reddy does not believe the suspects are from Innisfail but suggested that local businesses protect themselves by asking for photo identification during credit card transactions.
“Ask for photo identification and make sure, obviously, the name is a match to the credit card.”
The employee should always ensure that they are the one to insert the credit card and watch to make sure the credit card user is not punching in the full credit card number manually. She also suggested keeping note of any information on provided identification that might help RCMP track someone if necessary.
If an employee suspects that someone is committing fraud while they are processing a transaction, Reddy suggested contacting RCMP immediately. She said customers are generally understanding when retailers take such precautions and that none of the local RCMP officers will have any problem running over to make sure that everything is legit.
Anyone with any information about these frauds is asked to contact Innisfail RCMP at (403) 227-3342.
