Several Penticton residents are out of pocket after being scammed by a door to door two salesmen. RCMP received complaints that suspicious individuals have been canvassing neighbourhoods for UNICEF on behalf of Starbucks. Sgt. Rick Dellebuur says these individuals advise people that they can only accept donations via debt or credit card. "They carry with them a portable debit- credit card machine believed to be capable of capturing the victim's financial information including their PIN. They then take this information to make duplicate cards to withdraw funds or make purchases."
Delleburr says sometimes those who have been scammed don't realize they were missing funds for several days, until they check their bank statements. "Often the victims are provided with a realistic looking receipt and some ready brew Starbucks coffee as a thank you."
Police suspect there are two separate individuals canvassing in the area. One suspect is described as:
- A black male
- 25 to 30 years of age
- Between 5'6" and 5'8"
- Medium build
- Short hair/ shaved head
- Wearing a business suit with a Starbucks shirt and the name tag "Jim"
- A white male
- 30 years old
- Wearing casual business clothing and a UNICEF badge
Anyone with any information concerning these incidents are asked to call the Penticton RMCP. Dellebuur says the RCMP would like to remind people to be diligent when paying with their debt or credit card. "When in doubt, refrain from using your debit or credit card, cash is still an acceptable form of payment for most everyday purchases including donations."
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