A new initiative to prevent distraction thefts in Vancouver is facing criticism that it misses the mark and risks making people needlessly afraid. The public awareness campaign involves billboards placed in 19 locations around Vancouver, featuring the message 'WARNING: Be cautious of strangers getting close or asking for help." Christine Boyle, a Vancouver city councillor, says the billboards "send a confusing, and possibly harmful, message." What is the VPD doing telling people to fear each other. Wrong message, wrong time.

Source: CBC News July 24, 2021 12:00 UTC