RICHMOND RCMP are warning the public after receiving three fraud reports in the same week involving alleged fraudulent bank drafts.

The first two alleged frauds took place on December 8, but were reported on December 12, when the victims learnt the bank drafts were fraudulent.

According to the first victim, she was selling her purse online and had been given a bank draft as payment. After cashing it, she was advised by her bank that it was a fake.

According to the second victim, he was selling a diamond ring online and was given a bank draft as payment. After cashing it, he was advised by his bank that it was a fake.

The third alleged fraud took place on December 11, but was reported on December 14, when the victim learnt the bank draft was fraudulent.

According to the third victim, she was selling her purse online and had been given a bank draft as payment. After cashing it, she was advised by her bank that it was a fake.

Between the three victims over $50,000 in goods were lost.

“We have reason to believe these three investigations are linked,” said Cpl. Adriana O’Malley, Richmond RCMP Media Relations Officer, onm Friday. ”We don’t want to see anyone else fall prey to this type of fraud which is why we are issuing this public warning.”

Some ways to protect yourself against this type of fraud include:

* Confirming the authenticity of the bank draft by contacting the issuing financial institution before completing the transaction
* Meeting the buyer at a legitimate financial institution and observe the bank draft being ordered
* Ensuring the draft has cleared and has been confirmed prior to releasing the item to the buyer.
Anyone who may have information regarding these files is asked to call Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212. Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visit them online at www.solvecrime.ca.