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Provincial police are investigating after a North Perth resident recently reported being the victim of a phone scam.
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The investigation began Jan. 10, Perth County OPP said Monday.
The victim reported receiving a text message about suspicious activity on her credit card before answering a call from a woman who identified herself as a bank employee.
The woman advised the victim to withdraw cash from the bank and visit various stores to purchase gift cards, police said. The victim was reportedly told the money for the purchases would be transferred into her bank account.
The investigation is ongoing.
“Fraud is a multi-billion dollar per year business and modern, tech-savvy fraudsters will do their best to create confusion and chaos during interactions, leading victims to react impulsively and hand over their money,” Perth County OPP said in a news release. “It is imperative to (verify) any unsolicited requests before you respond or provide personal information. If you feel pressured, hang up the phone or delete the sender’s profile.”
Anyone who believes they are a victim of fraud is encouraged to call the OPP.
More information about fraud can be found by calling the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, 1-888-495-8501, or by visiting the organization’s website: antifraudcentre.ca.
