A woman who tried to claim her bingo numbers were three times lucky could be facing fraud charges.
Donna-Leigh West, Chairperson in charge of Lions Radio Bingo says a woman won $50 in February and deposited the cheque using her mobile banking app.
West says she was alerted by her bank when attempts were made to deposit the same cheque, first for $150 and then for $250 earlier this month.
“It’s something that can be done quite easily but it’s also extremely serious. It is fraud. Thankfully, the bank was able to get our money back.”
While West is concerned someone tried to steal from the charitable organization she still feels for the woman.
“It could be quite serious for her years down the road that she’s done this. If it was someone who needed help with something she should’ve contacted the Lions Club and perhaps we could’ve helped her.”
West is grateful RBC acted so quickly.
RBC Regional Vice President Brent Aitken says fraud is an ongoing issue, but one that can be mitigated.
Aitken says being proactive can be a person’s best protection.
“Simply to keep an eye and regularly review their statements whether it’s through online banking or the mobile app or an old-fashioned paper statement.”
Aitken says the banks are constantly on the look-out for fraud using the most up-to-date technology and expertise available.
However, he says avoiding fraud doesn’t necessarily need a high-tech solution.
“Generally speaking, if we exercise a slight degree of scepticism and a whole lot of common sense there’s a lot of fraud that can be prevented.”
He says anyone who suspects they may be a victim of fraud should contact their bank immediately.
Reported by: Ed Halverson
Twitter: @edwardhalverson
E-mail: halverson.ed@radioabl.ca
