RCMP warn of phone upgrade scam after Alberta arrest

Mounties are warning Canadians about a phone upgrade scam spreading across the country after arresting an Alberta teen allegedly involved in the scheme.

Airdrie RCMP say fraudsters have been cold‑calling victims while posing as representatives of major Canadian telecommunications companies.

The callers offer what appear to be legitimate upgrade deals, complete with fake employee names and even “supervisors” to bolster credibility.

Investigators say victims often place real upgrade orders through their actual provider’s online app, believing they are dealing with real staff.

In some cases, scammers gain access to the customer’s account by soliciting personal information during the call. They may also send emails using stolen corporate logos.

Once the new device arrives, the suspects contact the victim again, claiming that the wrong phone was shipped and that it must be returned. The “return facility” is typically just a random Canadian address belonging to someone involved in the scheme.

On Jan. 8, RCMP arrested a 19-year-old Airdrie resident in connection with one of the return locations. He is charged with trafficking property obtained by crime over $5,000 and using the mail to transmit fraudulently obtained electronic devices.

Tips for residents to protect themselves

Police are urging the public to be cautious if contacted about device upgrades. They advise consumers:

• not to make agreements over unsolicited calls
• avoid using phone numbers provided by callers
• independently verify customer‑service contacts through official websites or billing documents before calling back

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam is asked to contact police or reach out to Crime Stoppers to remain anonymous.