Fraud reports increase in Brandon

Fraud and scam reports in Brandon are showing mixed trends, even as many Prairie residents say scams are becoming a routine part of everyday life.

Recent calls for service indicate fraud reports have increased compared to the same period last year, a Brandon Police Service official told the Sun.

The reports show 61 cases have been reported in 2026 already, compared with the 53 cases reported in 2025. However, police said the numbers are still lower than what was recorded in 2024 (83) and 2023 (90), suggesting a longer-term decline despite a short-term uptick.

“Fraud and scam reports remain common in Manitoba and, unfortunately, even right here in Brandon,” the official said in an email. “From the garage scams last summer to grandparent scams, they’re always looking at new ways to trick people into handing over cash.”

Seniors, particularly grandparents, are often targeted through “emergency” or grandparent scams that pressure them to quickly send money to help a family member in distress, the officer said.

The local experience reflects broader concerns highlighted in a recent poll by the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC).

The poll found 77 per cent of respondents in the Prairie region are frustrated that scams have become part of everyday life, while 80 per cent feel new scams are emerging almost weekly.

The increase is being driven by both the frequency and sophistication of scam attempts, senior vice-president of credit and fraud management Amit Sadhu told the Sun.

“Scammers are getting better at making them look legitimate and are using more channels to reach people,” Sadhu said. “Phone calls, emails, online advertisements and shopping platforms are common entry points. When scams show up through multiple channels, it feels constant.”

While some Manitoba and Saskatchewan residents fear artificial intelligence could make scams nearly impossible to detect, both RBC and BPS said the core tactics remain largely unchanged.

“Scams are always trying to be more sophisticated,” a BPS official said. “AI could play a larger role in the future, but most scams still rely on creating urgency and impersonating trusted individuals or organizations.”

Sadhu said AI is already being used by criminals to scale and personalize scams, even as financial institutions invest in new technologies and specialized teams to counter evolving threats.

Despite widespread awareness, many people still fall victim after engaging with scammers. Police advised residents to “slow down and verify” any unexpected requests for money or personal information, especially those that demand immediate action.

“Confirm the situation directly with a trusted family member, financial institution, or police before sending money or sharing details,” a BPS official said.

RBC said people should stay informed about emerging scam tactics and to speak openly about their experiences,” Sadhu said. “Removing the stigma around being targeted can help others recognize warning signs earlier and avoid falling victim.”

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

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