Firearm licence information being stolen in new scam targeting gun buyers, police warn

Policeare warning Calgarians about a new scam being used to obtain Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) information from would-be gun buyers.

Investigators became aware of two separatecases last weekin which victimslooking to buy guns via online ads unwittingly gave up their licence information to apparent scammers who never delivered the firearms.

In both cases, police saidthe sellers spoke to the buyers over the phone andarranged for payment by e-transfer.

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The buyers then gave the sellers their PAL numbers, as per regulations.

But, police said, asthe e-transfers took place, the involved banks noticed the sellers'accounts were fraudulent and the transactions were halted before any money waslost.

Police believe the fraudsters plan to use thePAL numbers gathered from would-be buyers to illegally purchase firearms, themselves.

Anyone who believes their PAL number has been compromised is asked to call the National Weapons Enforcement Support Team at403-428-8042or403-428-8043.

Police also advise that, if you are selling a firearm, to check first with the Canadian Firearms Centreto determine if a PAL number is flagged by calling1-800-731-4000.

And, if you are buying a firearm, police say you shouldensure to have verified the seller before you provide any personal information.

Specific advice includes:

• Ensure you are using a reputable website.
• Watch for multiple ads featuring the same photo and/or phone number. They may use different names on the ads, but the phone numbers are usually the same.
• Don't be rushed by a seller. If they are pressuring you for a quick sale, there is often a reason.
• If it's too good to be true, it probably is. If the gun is selling forless than market value, the likelihood of a fraud increases.