COLLINGWOOD OPP REMINDS RESIDENTS TO STAY ALERT AFTER GIFT CARD FRAUD INVESTIGATION

(COLLINGWOOD, ON) – Members of the Collingwood and The Blue Mountains Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are currently investigating a fraud occurrence. The investigation involves a suspect manipulating the victim into believing that local banks are stealing their money and convincing them to purchase gift cards as a means of keeping their funds “safe.”

Officers from the Collingwood and The Blue Mountains Detachment would like to remind the public to remain vigilant and to be aware of key red flags associated with online and financial fraud:

·       Individuals encouraging you to keep the situation secret or not speak with family, friends, or financial institutions

·       Requests to purchase gift cards and provide the codes as a form of payment

·       Situations involving pressure or urgency, including being told to act immediately or remain on the phone while making purchases

·       Claims that your money or bank account is at risk, along with instructions to move or “protect” your funds

·       Being told to purchase a new phone or computer or to communicate through a specific platform

The Ontario Provincial Police remind the public that no legitimate organization or financial institution will request payment in the form of gift cards or ask you to keep financial matters a secret.

If you or someone you know may be a victim of an online fraud, please contact the OPP non-emergency line at 1- 888-310-1122 or attend your local police station.