North Okanagan

RCMP in the North Okanagan are warning people of a door-to-door scam in which an individual is claiming to be collecting funds for UNICEF.

The same scam has made the rounds in the Central Okanagan.

RCMP spokesman, Gord Molendyk, says the person uses a laptop to show a presentation to a home or business owner then presents a hand held card reader.

The suspect asks for a debit card or credit card for a donation.

"One of the people who did donate money to this person noticed a large amount of money removed from their bank account shortly after, from two different financial institutions," says Molendyk.

"UNICEF has been contacted and they advised they have no one in our area. They are very concerned someone is misrepresenting their name. They also want everyone to know they do not solicit cash donations."

Molendyk says the company authorized to fundraise on behalf of UNICEF is Public Outreach Inc. and their representatives are fully trained and follow strict guidelines.

These include:

• Wear photo ID badges, UNIFEC attire and carry UNICEF materials
• Will not solicit any cash donations or sell/offer any merchandise
• Encourage individuals interested in the Global Parents program to visit the UNICEF website, provide contact information for future follow-up and/or provide information to become a Global Parent/Monthly Donor.
• Provide/hand out literature sparingly and only to those supporters who indicate strongly that they would be interested in contributing to UNICEF
• Carry the appropriate insurance and legal paperwork

RCMP remind everyone to be cautious about door-to-door solicitation and if you encounter someone attempting to collect for UNICEF in this manner, call the nearest detachment to report it.