Police warn of e-transfer fraud targeting online sellers
Edmonton man arrested after posing as buyer, convincing sellers he'd sent payment before leaving with items. Police say he may have targeted dozens.
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Edmonton police have issued a warrant for a 46-year-old man accused of running a scheme targeting people selling valuable items online.
Ryan Kenzie allegedly contacted sellers of phones, jewelry, and watches, then met them in person. He would claim he'd sent e-transfer payment, take the merchandise, and leave — but the transfers were never actually sent.
Kenzie was previously convicted of nine fraud-related offences between April and October 2025 in Edmonton and Sherwood Park. After serving his sentence and being released on probation, police say he was charged in connection with a similar alleged fraud scheme.
Constable Emily Kostuik said the repeated nature of the incidents suggests he may have targeted many more people. "By raising awareness, we hope to prevent others from falling victim to fraud and encourage anyone impacted to report it to police."
Edmonton Police Service operates Buy and Sell Exchange Zones at police station parking lots — well-lit areas monitored by video — to provide safe meeting places for online transactions. Police ask anyone who believes they were defrauded to contact investigators.