Nelson Police warn public of identity fraud

2025-675: Police were called this week by a Nelson resident who had been the target of an identity fraud. 

“Fraud is the most common crime in Canada,” says Special Constable Edwards, “It’s important to learn about the techniques that scammers use and take steps to protect yourself.” 

The caller’s identity had previously been compromised by a data breach of Interior Health. Since then, they had been receiving calls from an unknown number. Upon answering, they were informed that they owed $4,000 due to an overdrawn account with a company that they had never banked with.

Police advised the caller to contact Equifax and TransUnion to make sure that no accounts had been opened in their name, and to reach out to the bank’s anti-fraud department. No money had been taken from any of their accounts. 

“If you find out that your information has been leaked in a data breach, it’s important to take proactive steps to protect yourself from identity fraud. Accounts can be opened in your name without you finding out, which can negatively affect your credit rating.” Says Special Constable Edwards. 

More information on fraud and identity theft can be found at the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website:

https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm

If you believe that you have been impacted by this type of privacy breach, you can contact the Nelson Police Department. 

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Police called for missing person

2025-741: On Friday, February 7^th, police were called by a mother reporting that her son and his friend hadn’t returned home after a day of snowmobiling. 

The men had planned a day in the mountains and been expected home by 4:00pm. When they had not returned by 6:30, the concerned mother reported their absence. Police took immediate action to try and locate the pair. 

Just under an hour after the report had been made, the son contacted police and explained that he had issues with his snowmobile, which had delayed him outside of cell service. Police confirmed that he was safe and well. 

“We would like to commend this family for taking all the right actions,” says Special Constable Edwards. “Having a safety plan in place and making sure someone knows where you’re going and when you’re expected home is always a good idea when going into the backcountry.”

If you have concerns that someone is missing or may be in danger, don’t hesitate to contact the police department. 

CALLS FOR SERVICE

Members of the Nelson Police Department responded to 86 calls for service in the City of Nelson during this reporting period (February 2 at 12am to February 8 at 12pm).  

CONTACT:

Nelson Police Department

(250) 354-3919