Airdrie RCMP are warning Canadians about a telecom-related fraud scheme after arresting a 19-year-old local man allegedly connected to one of the fake “return facilities” used in the scam. Police say the operation involves fraudsters impersonating phone companies, convincing victims to order new devices, and then redirecting those phones to addresses controlled by people working with the scheme.

Airdrie RCMP are warning the public about a telecom scam that police say is affecting victims across Canada. The warning follows the arrest of a 19-year-old Airdrie man who investigators allege was involved with one of the fake return addresses used in the scheme.

According to police, the fraud begins with cold calls from people claiming to represent legitimate Canadian telecommunication companies. Victims are offered what appear to be attractive upgrade deals on their phones or service plans. RCMP say the calls can sound convincing, with fraudsters using fake employee names and, in some cases, even transferring victims to so-called supervisors to make the interaction seem legitimate.

Once a victim agrees to the offer, the scam moves to the next stage. Police say victims are persuaded to place an order for a new device through their real provider’s online app. In some cases, fraudsters are also able to take over the customer’s account using personal information gathered during the call. Investigators say the scammers may even send emails that appear authentic, complete with stolen corporate branding and logos.

After the new phone is delivered, the fraudsters allegedly contact the victim again and claim that the wrong device was shipped. The victim is then instructed to return it to a supposed return facility. Police say these return locations are not legitimate company facilities at all, but instead random Canadian addresses connected to individuals involved in the fraud.

RCMP say that on January 8, 2026, Airdrie officers arrested 19-year-old Muhammad Ayaan Nadeem, who they allege was involved with one of these false return facilities. He has been charged with trafficking property obtained by crime over $5,000 and with using the mail to transmit packages containing fraudulently obtained electronic devices. He is scheduled to appear in Alberta Court of Justice in Airdrie on April 23, 2026.

Police say the case highlights how fraud schemes are becoming more sophisticated by blending real account systems, convincing impersonation tactics, and local delivery or return points that make the scam look credible. Rather than stealing money directly at the outset, the fraudsters allegedly manipulate victims into ordering and surrendering expensive electronic devices, which can then be redirected and resold.

RCMP are advising residents not to agree to phone upgrades or device offers during unsolicited calls. Anyone contacted by someone claiming to be from a telecom company should independently verify the company’s official customer service number through its website or billing documents rather than relying on contact information provided during the call. Police say that extra step can help prevent victims from being drawn into a scheme that appears legitimate on the surface but is designed to divert valuable devices into criminal networks.

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Originally published on Canadian Fraud News.