(St. John’s, NL) October 8, 2024 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) is warning the public about an ongoing increase in what is known as cell phone brushing scams on the Northeast Avalon.

Some residents have been receiving telephone calls from individuals posing as telecommunications representatives, advising they are going to receive a new cell phone in the mail. Even if declined, the cell phone arrives a few days later and even if returned, people are being billed for the cost of the phone through their cell phone provider.

The RNC is asking anyone targeted to obtain the tracking number for the package (if shipped by UPS/Canada Post) and the address where the phone is to be returned. This information should then be provided to the RNC by making a formal statement prior to returning the phone directly to your local provider in-person.

The RNC is reminding the public to be cautious of any communication with those unknown to them:

• Do not feel obligated to engage in conversation – hang up.
• Never provide personal information to unknown sources.
• Do not use your phone’s call back feature or caller ID to call them back.

Remember, it is very unlikely that a company will contact you by phone to offer a service, promotion, or refund.

To report suspicious activity, call the RNC at 709-729-8000 or use the online reporting system. The incidents should also be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.

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File # 2024-62961 

Cst. James Cadigan, #775
Public Communications Officer
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca