---
title: "Richmond RCMP warn of online marketplace fraud after $22,000 in reported losses"
description: "Fraudsters have handed buyers envelopes of worthless paper instead of payment in multiple incidents since November 2025. RCMP advise using the Exchange Zone at the No. 5 Road detachment."
canonical_url: "https://voche.me/bc/richmond-2026/news/richmond-rcmp-online-marketplace-fraud-2026-10-31"
last_updated: "2026-10-31T17:02:48.590Z"
---

Richmond RCMP are warning residents who sell items through online marketplaces about a fraud in which buyers hand over envelopes of worthless paper instead of cash. The Richmond News reported the warning on 29 October 2026, citing the detachment on No. 5 Road.

Cpl. Melissa Lui, the Richmond RCMP media relations officer, told the Richmond News: "These suspects are skilled at creating a false sense of security during a transaction and rely on victims being distracted at a critical moment."

## What has happened

RCMP say they have investigated multiple incidents since last November in which people selling high-value items online handed over their goods in exchange for envelopes that appeared to contain cash but held worthless paper instead. Total reported losses from these incidents exceed $22,000.

Investigators have also identified similar incidents in other Lower Mainland jurisdictions, which Richmond RCMP say suggests this may be part of a broader regional pattern.

## The Exchange Zone

Richmond RCMP advise using the Exchange Zone at the detachment at 11411 No. 5 Rd., south of Steveston Highway, for online marketplace transactions. The zone is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday, Sunday and statutory holidays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For sales where the buyer wants to pay in cash, RCMP recommend completing the transaction at a bank so the funds can be verified on the spot. Other tips from the Richmond News report: count all currency before handing over the item; watch for buyers who appear rushed or try to create distractions; and consider electronic payment methods that can be confirmed on the spot.

Richmond residents who believe they may have been targeted should contact local police to report the incident.

News about public safety and the people running Richmond after the 17 October 2026 election is at [/bc/richmond-2026/news](/bc/richmond-2026/news).

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