A series of thefts involving complex schemes to obtain people’s PIN’s for their bank cards has been flagged by the Kamloops RCMP.

“The Kamloops RCMP Detachment is reminding the public to be extra aware of their surroundings when entering their PIN, following recent theft and fraud reports,” stated the Mounties in a release on Tuesday.

The detachment says the most recent report was received on August 15, 2025, and involves an elderly woman who was intentionally distracted while in a grocery store.

RCMP say the thieves managed to get her PIN by following her in a check-out line.

“Based on the investigation it is believed that the victim was followed to the checkout and one of the suspects spied while the PIN was being entered,” said Corporal Dana Napier, Kamloops RCMP Detachment spokesperson. “The victim then left the store and was approached by two men who distracted her by asking for directions while the third suspect pickpockets the debit card.”

The previous month, July 9, 2025, police received a report of a theft/fraud that also involved the use of a PIN, suspected to have been obtained when the victim’s wallet was stolen sometime after leaving a grocery store.

Kamloops RCMP are now working to see if these crimes are related.

In two instances they involved the use of a stolen card, accompanied by a stolen corresponding PIN.

In an effort to advance the investigations, the Kamloops RCMP is releasing images of the suspects related to several files.

Along with seeking more information related to these scams, police are also hoping to help prevent other people from being victimized.

Prevention Tips

• Trust your instincts, if something feels off it probably is.
• Do not leave your purse/bag unattended in a cart.
• Cover your PIN and be aware of who is nearby even if they don’t look like they are paying attention.
• Be aware of your surroundings and how close people are to you
• If approached by a stranger feel free to walk away.

For more fraud prevention tips, visit Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre .