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A scary new type of scam is making the rounds in Regina, and police are warning the public to stay calm and make a report if they get any threatening messages.
Regina police said they’ve had multiple reports from victims who felt their lives and safety were being threatened online.
Police said the scammers contact potential victims through text messages, claiming they’re with an escort company. The scammers, police said, accuse their targets of using the services of an escort without paying and threaten their lives, or even the lives of the victim’s family, if a payment isn’t made.
“Over the course of several texts, the sender attaches graphic images depicting victims of violent assaults and homicide, as well as images or video of armed, masked men,” Regina police said in a statement.
Police said they’re working with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, who have fielded reports of similar scams across Canada.
The Regina Police Service said the best thing to do if you start getting unsolicited messages is to stay calm and objective, and let police know.
“Perpetrators always try to create urgency, anxiety and even fear in their victims, no matter what type of scam it is,” the statement read.
“Assess the information contained in the call or message; do not add your own personal information when someone asks for, or demands it. Do not make a payment. Make a report with your local police service if you have concerns for your safety, if you feel you have been the victim of a scam, or if you have suffered a financial loss as the result of a scam.”
Anyone who feels they have been victimized by a scam can also contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, police noted.