2 arrested in B.C. fake taxi scam that targets Good Samaritans

Metro Vancouver Transit Police provided this phot of a taxi sign attached to the roof of a vehicle with magnets.

Charges have been recommended against two men in a taxi scam targeting Good Samaritans in B.C.’s Lower Mainland, according to authorities.

Metro Vancouver Transit Police provided an update in the case Thursday, describing how the suspected fraudsters operate – noting they approached would-be victims at shopping centres and universities in the region.

“One of the suspects poses as a passenger inside the taxi who cannot pay their cab fare. They then ask citizens for assistance covering the amount,” the statement from police said.

“When the victims agree to help and hand over their debit or credit cards to pay the stranger’s fare, their cards are covertly swapped out by the vehicle’s occupants. In some cases, fraudulent purchases and withdrawals are then made on the victims’ real cards.”

On Dec. 6, 2024, patrol officers working near Surrey SkyTrain station spotted a vehicle – a black Hyundai Elantra – they believed was linked to the frauds.

“Police observed as the passenger got out of the vehicle and placed a yellow “taxi” sign on the roof of the Hyundai, before getting back in as the vehicle drove off toward SFU Surrey. Given these observations, police suspected the occupants were readying to look for more victims,” the statement from MVTP said.

The driver and the passenger – both described as young men from Ontario – were arrested. Police seized 29 debit cards, a payment machine and a taxi sign from the car.

Charges have been recommended but not yet approved, and the two suspects have been released from custody.

MVTP spokesperson Const, Amanda Steed urged people to be mindful of this scam if they are approached by a stranger claiming to be in need.

“Members of the public are being asked to familiarize themselves with the details of this alleged operation and remain vigilant when it comes to handing over their bank cards,” she said.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is urged to call 604.515.8300 or text 87.77.77.