Scammed out of $10K

Photo: Contributed

A Penticton woman is out almost $10,000, after falling for what she now believes was an online scam, police have reported.

Last week, the local resident received a message over Facebook from an unknown person who requested money.

“It is another questionable action on account of a person who feels that she was conned out of $10,000 online, through a Facebook request for money leading to an offshore account,” said Cpl. Ted Manchulenko.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, it is the time of year people are more likely to fall victim to an online scam, according to Penticton RCMP.

“The scams are still out there especially at this time of year,” Manchulenko said. “If it looks too good to be true, you might want to take a really hard look at it, because it probably is."

While the officer gave few details about the case, but he said the victim "ponied up almost $10,000" to send to a person who cannot be located by either the bank or on Facebook.

RCMP are asking the public to be careful, check with the bank, check with financial institutions and check with family members when facing a similar situation.

“If you’re looking for a quick buck on your own dollar, chances are it’s not going to work out for you."

An investigation continues.