Crime & Justice
Edmonton Woman Fights Back Against Phone Scam Syndicate
A local woman turned the tables on an elaborate fraud ring, leading police to a wider investigation into digital crime tactics.
Published April 10, 2025 | By Jordan Whitmore
When 58-year-old Anna Bhullar received a call from someone claiming to be her grandson in jail, her instinct told her something was off. Rather than panic, she asked detailed questions—and began recording.
The caller insisted on urgent bail money and pressured her to wire funds to an overseas account. But Bhullar, who volunteers with a local senior advocacy group, had just attended a seminar on phone scams two weeks earlier.
Instead of hanging up, she kept the caller talking. Meanwhile, her daughter contacted the RCMP, who traced the incoming number and eventually linked it to a known scam syndicate operating from outside the province.
RCMP Tech Crimes Division says the tactic used on Bhullar is part of a growing trend known as 'emergency impersonation scams.' These calls often target seniors, exploiting fear and emotional manipulation.
Bhullar’s decision to play along gave authorities just enough time to triangulate the call and issue an alert to telecom partners. Within 48 hours, three additional scam attempts were intercepted using similar language and bank details.
“She stayed calm, asked smart questions, and gave us an opening,” said Sgt. Colleen Nash. “Without that, these types of scams often go unreported and untraceable.”
Police have since released a public advisory featuring Bhullar’s story and a list of common red flags for suspicious calls. The initiative, launched under Project DialShield, has already received dozens of tips.
In recognition of her actions, Bhullar has been invited to speak at several local events. “I didn’t do anything heroic,” she said. “I just didn’t want anyone else falling for it.”
Local advocacy groups are urging telecom providers to implement default call-blocking protocols for known scam patterns. The CRTC is reportedly reviewing updated legislation on the matter.
As for Bhullar, she hopes her story will inspire more people to speak up. “We’re not powerless,” she said. “If we stay informed and support one another, we can shut these crooks down.”