Suspects contact seniors or family members claiming that their grandchild or family member was in an accident, charged with an offence or is ill
NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Anti-Rackets Branch (ARB) and Serious Fraud Office Ontario (SFO), in concert with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) are using Fraud Prevention Month to help citizens protect themselves from becoming a victim of fraud.
This year’s theme is impersonation, and focuses on scams where fraudsters will claim to be government officials, critical infrastructure companies, and even law enforcement officials. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre will be sharing advice through our website, Facebook and Twitter pages.
This bulletin was prepared to warn the public and, more specifically, seniors about ongoing emergency and grandparent scams.
Suspects contact seniors or family members claiming that their grandchild or family member was in an accident, charged with an offence such as a DUI and drug offences or, in some cases, is ill with COVID-19.
Suspects will claim that they are law enforcement officials, lawyers and even impersonate the grandchild/family member. They will proceed to advise the victim that a payment for supposed bail or fine is required immediately in order for the family member to avoid going to jail. If the victim agrees to pay the requested amount, suspects will arrange to pick up the funds in…
