The owner of Hemingway’s Books in downtown Abbotsford wants people to know that an email using his name and stating that he has been mugged in Manila is fraudulent.
The email from the store’s email account indicates that David Kyle was hit on the back of his neck with a pistol, and his cash, credit cards and cellphone were taken while on a trip to the Philippines.
“I’m financially strapped right now and need your help,” the message states.
A request for $2,000 in U.S. funds is made, with a promise that the money will be refunded later.
The email asks the recipient to respond to the message for advice on how to transfer the funds. The note is signed “David.”
Const. Ian MacDonald said Abbotsford Police do not receive many complaints about scam emails, but he advised people to be cautious whenever a money request is made online.