The RCMP are asking for public assistance in identifying a male suspect in connection to an alleged scam that occurred recently in Portage la Prairie.

Police say in a release an unidentified male suspect approached the victim outside the RBC branch on Saskatchewan ave. around 6 p.m. on Sept. 12. The suspect told the victim his daughter was recently injured, and he needed money to help with her recovery. The victim freely gave a donation, then the suspect pressed for more cash and asked that he/she withdraw more money while inside the bank.

"Unfortunately, the victim's good intentions and the suspect's persistence resulted in a substantial loss," the RCMP says.

Const. Sean O'Keefe says police believe this is the only reported incident involving this specific scammer, but urges you to always use caution when handing out money.

"Unfortunately a lot of other people are defrauded of money through e-mail, over-the-phone and text message scams," O'Keefe says. "Another common tactic (for scammers) is to pretend to be a family member, relative or co-worker and ask for assistance."

"In regards to giving out money, always try to give it to a trusted source," continues O'Keefe. "And always refrain from giving out any banking information such as your current balance and credit limit, and under no circumstances should you ever give out your bank pin number."

O'Keefe adds if you have information that would lead identifying the suspect in this incident, please contact your local police detachment. Anonymous tips can be made through Manitoba Crimes Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and www.manitobacrimestoppers.com