The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) would like to warn residents of persistent and increasing “emergency scams” occurring across Halton. For reference, between the dates of September 26 and October 3, 2022, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre received 42 emergency scam reports where losses totaled over $520,000. Of the 42 reports, 22 were from Ontario and losses totaled over $115,000. These scams have often been targeting older adults.
In a typical emergency scam scenario, an older person receives a phone call from someone claiming to be their grandchild. The caller goes on to say that they are in some kind of trouble, such as being in a car accident or being put in jail, and that they need money immediately. Some victims may get calls from two people, one pretending to be their loved one and the other acting as a police officer or lawyer. The caller will ask the potential victim a series of leading questions which prompts them to volunteer personal information. Typically, they will ask for money to be delivered in cash to a “bail bondsman” or an “employee of a law firm/court”.
Victims often don’t verify the caller’s story until after the money has been given to the fraudster.
The HRPS would like to provide the following tips to help prevent becoming victimized by these types of scams:
If you suspect you are being contacted by a fraudster, call the HRPS at 905-825-4777 or 911 if it is an emergency
If you are at a bank, do not lie to the teller – tell them why you are retrieving the cash. Employees are trained to assist you in recognizing possible frauds
Attempt to verify the caller’s identity – do not volunteer any information, and further ask very specific probing questions about the caller.
Request to call back the initial caller – then independently find the number of the police service (or other purported agency in question) and call them directly to clarify the situation. If unsure, call your local police service and ask them for assistance.
Attempt to directly call the loved one in question and clarify the matter with them.
Remember - Fraudsters will count on your good will to act quickly and help a loved one. Take your time and use above noted tips to protect yourself. Police, lawyers and the court will never ask you to give money to someone at your door.
Additional information on frauds and scams can be found here, or through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
Anyone with information pertaining to a fraud is asked to contact the Regional Fraud Bureau Intake Office at 905-465-8741 or Fraud@haltonpolice.ca.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. "See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers" at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
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