Scammers tricking some B.C. residents into sending them their cellphones

Advertisement 1 This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Breadcrumb Trail Links HomeNewsCrimeLocal News Scammers tricking some B.C. residents into sending them their cellphones New phones, potentially worth thousands of dollars, are lost as B.C. victims duped by mail scam Author of the article: By Staff Reporter Published Sep 19, 2026 Last updated 14 minutes ago 1 minute read Join the conversation RCMP on Vancouver Island are urging the public to double check who they are dealing with after uncovering a scam around the return of newly purchased cellphones. PHOTO BY GEORGE MATTOCK/GETTY IMAGES /PNG Article content RCMP on Vancouver Island are urging the public to double check who they are dealing with after uncovering a scam around the return of newly purchased cellphones. Article content Victims, who have recently received a new cellphone through a legitimate wireless provider, are contacted by someone claiming to represent their service provider and told that they’ve been sent the wrong phone. Article content Article content Article content They are supplied with a prepaid shipping label sent by email and directed to return the device, and, believing the request to be legitimate, willingly ship their phones. Article content Sunrise Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion. Sign Up By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Article content But the package is delivered to an unauthorized address instead of their service provider, resulting in the loss of the phone. Article content “These scammers can be convincing and often have information that makes the request appear legitimate,” said Const. Tessa McDonald of North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP. Article content “If you are contacted and asked to return a recently purchased phone, take the time to verify the request directly with your provider before sending anything.” Article content Apart from contacting your service provider directly to confirm the request and address, always be cautious about any unsolicited calls, emails, or text messages regarding a recent phone purchase, and never provide personal or account information unless you have verified who you are dealing with. Article content Anyone who believes they have fallen prey to this scam can call the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP non-emergency line at (250) 748-5522. Article…