At least 14 Albertans have been affected by a recent Ponzi scheme, says Alberta RCMP.

Their Integrated Market Enforcement Team (IMET) is warning of a pair of apps that have reportedly cost Albertan victims $148,630.

According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), the Aweunion and Awebuy apps encourage users to invest money in unpopular Amazon products in order to take advantage of the website's algorithm and boost the profile of those products.

Users are told they'll see commission on these investments, but people have been reporting that they received no such return and were unable to contact Aweunion admins.

The CAFC describes it as a 'nation-wide scam,' not limited to Alberta.

The apps were reportedly advertised on social media.

Sgt. Tyson Duff with IMET is quoted in an RCMP release:

"We are asking the public to be vigilant in the investments they are making via apps and online platforms that promote significant profit or returns on their finances... Avoid falling victim to such scams by carrying out your due diligence and thoroughly researching the businesses you are trusting with your money."

They're encouraging members of the public to utilize the Better Business Bureau and the Anti Fraud Centre when doing so.