Prince Edward Island RCMP are urging Islanders to be alert after reports that scammers have begun sending taxis to the homes of people who previously lost money in frauds, in an effort to obtain further payments.
Three recent reports, police say
Cpl. Gavin Moore, media relations officer for P.E.I. RCMP, said officers have received three reports over the past four months in which fraudsters arranged for taxis to appear at victims' residences. In those cases, the people targeted had already lost money to an earlier scam.
"It's important that Islanders be aware that scammers can be relentless,"
Moore said the taxi drivers believed they were picking up a legitimate passenger who needed a ride to a bank or to buy gift cards. In the incidents reported to police, the intended victims did not get into the taxis and did not provide additional funds.
Why this tactic matters
Police warn the new tactic is a variation on existing fraud strategies: once scammers have successfully obtained money from someone, they will look for further opportunities to exploit that person. Having a vehicle arrive at a home can be a persuasive and intimidating escalation.
"They feel that the fraudsters are violating the sanctity of their home. This is where they live, and fraudsters have reached out to their residence,"
Moore said the emotional toll on victims can be severe, with feelings of shame and embarrassment compounding the financial loss.
Practical steps for Islanders
RCMP are reminding the public of simple, practical precautions to reduce risk. Police recommend Islanders treat unexpected contacts with caution and never provide money, banking information, or gift-card codes to strangers.
- Do not let unknown individuals into your home.
- Do not hand cash or gift cards to someone who shows up unexpectedly.
- Contact family members directly to verify claims (do not use numbers provided in a suspicious message).
- Call your local police if you feel threatened or if someone suspicious comes to your door asking for money.
Police did not say whether any of the taxi drivers involved were complicit or aware they were participating in a scam beyond transporting a passenger. That detail remains under investigation in the incidents reported to RCMP.
| Reported incidents | Timeframe | Reported outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | Past four months | No additional funds given (according to reports) |
Community supports and reporting
RCMP encourage anyone who has been targeted by a scam — whether they lost money or not — to report it. Reporting helps police build a clearer picture of how fraudsters operate and may prevent others from being victimized.
Islanders who are unsure about a call, text or visit should reach out to a trusted friend or family member before taking any action. Local police detachments can advise on how to verify requests and what to do if someone shows up at your door demanding money.
Scams that escalate to doorstep visits underscore the evolving tactics used by fraudsters. Staying informed and exercising caution remain the best defences.
For more information on fraud prevention and how to report suspected scams, contact your local RCMP detachment or visit federal and provincial consumer-protection resources.
