Old-school robbers are taking an interest in cryptocurrencies as a Canadian police department recently issued a public warning on an ongoing trend in high-value cryptocurrency investors being robbed in their homes.
The public warning came after it registered several cases of home invasion and robbery of high-value cryptocurrency investors in the past year. Now, the public warning came as the police department believes it is necessary for public safety.
“It appears someone is targeting these victims for cryptocurrency, and we believe this public warning is necessary in the interest of public safety,” said Staff Sergeant Gene Hsieh of the Richmond RCMP Major Crime Unit.
However, the Canadian police did not furnish any details about the robberies or share the amount of stolen cryptocurrencies, as the investigation is still ongoing. However, the warning highlighted that “large amounts” of cryptocurrencies were involved.
The Canadian police also detailed that the robbers followed a particular operation pattern: the suspects gained access to a victim’s home by posing as delivery people or persons of authority, and once inside, they robbed the victim’s crypto wallet information.
“The suspects appear to know the victims are heavily invested in cryptocurrency, know where they live, and are robbing them in their own homes,” said Staff Sergeant Jill Long of Delta Police Investigative Services.
The Canadian police have already made an arrest. However, the police are still hesitant to confirm if all of these robberies are related. Law enforcement also believes there are more victims of such robberies, but they did not register any complaints.
As a precaution, crypto investors are advised not to show off their wealth or seek investment advice on social media or other public platforms. Also, people should not allow strangers or delivery people inside the house and should confirm their identity or seek emergency assistance in case of suspicion.
Richmond RCMP and Delta Police
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Police issue warning to high-value cryptocurrency investors following home-invasion style robberies.
Date: 2023-07-19
For the full News Release, see below:https://t.co/27JLFKcV10#DeltaPolice#DeltaBCpic.twitter.com/7CqONzUdUl
— Delta Police Department (@deltapolice) July 19, 2023