The RCMP is warning the public, particularly elderly Canadian residents, about a reported scam involving individuals posing as maintenance workers and service providers.
The suspects have been approaching apartment complexes and retirement homes, claiming they need to enter suites to check sprinklers, smoke alarms, or other building safety systems. Once inside, the suspects create a diversion by asking the senior to retrieve something from another room, allowing them to be left unattended. During this time, the suspects go through drawers and steal money or valuables.
In addition, suspects have also been posing as contractors or service providers offering to complete driveway paving, sealing, or similar services. In these cases, seniors are often asked to pay upfront, only to be left with unfinished or poor-quality work, or no work at all.
“This type of scam specifically targets some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” says Cst. Kelly Brett. “We want to remind the public to be cautious and verify who they are allowing into their homes or hiring for services.”
Safety Tips:
- Do not allow anyone into your home without proper identification.
- Confirm with your building manager or landlord before permitting maintenance work.
- Do not leave strangers unattended in your suite.
- Be cautious of unsolicited offers for driveway or home services.
- Report any suspicious activity to the RCMP immediately.
Anyone with information about these incidents, or who may have been a victim, is asked to contact the RCMP at 250-492-4300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
BC Hydro is also warning customers to remain vigilant as reports of attempted and successful scams surged in 2025, highlighting the growing sophistication of fraud targeting British Columbians.
Over the course of the month, 60 customers reported falling victim to a scam, while another 92 alerted BC Hydro to attempted scams. This represents an increase of 36 per cent in overall scam activity compared to the monthly average from February to April. BC Hydro cautions that the actual number of incidents is likely significantly higher, as many fraud attempts go unreported.
“Scammers are continually refining their tactics to appear more convincing and credible,” said Susie Rieder, BC Hydro spokesperson. “We urge customers to trust their instincts – if something feels off, it probably is – and to report suspicious activity right away.”
Fraud tactics have become increasingly sophisticated. Criminals are impersonating BC Hydro through spoofed phone calls, emails and deceptive online ads. These often link to fake websites offering fraudulent discounts on solar panels, home upgrades and other services. A recent incident involved a paid Google ad that closely mimicked BC Hydro’s official website, resulting in several successful scams. In some cases, scammers have even appeared at customers’ homes posing as BC Hydro employees, attempting to access their property or try to sell them solar or battery services, with the promise of rebates.
