Winnipeg, MB – Fraudsters posing as taxi operators and passengers are targeting Winnipeg residents in a new debit card skimming scam. These fake taxis, with counterfeit signs, operate in high-traffic areas like mall parking lots.
The scam begins when a fraudulent taxi passenger approaches bystanders, claiming the vehicle doesn’t accept cash. They request the bystander to use their debit card for payment, offering cash in return. Once the victim’s card is obtained, fraudsters skim the card, withdrawing more than the alleged fare.
According to the Winnipeg Police, the Financial Crimes Unit is working with local authorities and vehicle oversight bodies to combat the scam. They urge residents to verify taxi legitimacy by looking for the company’s decal and a three-digit taxi ID number.
Police advise the public to avoid lending their debit cards to strangers, even if offered cash. Suspicious transactions or activities should be reported immediately.
Winnipeg taxi companies all accept cash, making the scam easier to detect. Report fraudulent activity to local authorities or online via the City of Winnipeg’s fraud reporting portal.
