Alberta RCMP issue Bitcoin scam warning with posters

In an effort to stop victims of fraud from making bitcoin payments, the RCMP has launched an initiative that will see posters with warnings placed in rural locations.

Scams continue to be prevalent throughout the province, primarily scams where culprits are representing themselves as agents from a government organization and requesting payment in Bitcoin.

To assist citizens throughout Alberta, posters have been created by the RCMP – Strategic Communications New Media team. The posters are very clear with warnings, including: “STOP – DO NOT use this Bitcoin machine if you are not in control of the QR Code you scan”.

“We felt that we needed to take one more step in educating potential victims and stopping them from making that irretrievable payment” says Staff Sergeant Rob Marsollier of Red Deer RCMP Detachment. “We know that Edmonton Police Service has done similar posters and if it stops even one person from losing their savings, then it’s a success.”

With cooperation from the businesses hosting the bitcoin machines, the posters will be put up throughout Alberta in the near future.

Media Contact:
Corporal Laurel Scott
Media Relations Group
780-890-2685