The South Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have seen an unfortunate rise of fraud reports in our five municipalities.
Since the 1st of January 2024, South Bruce OPP have received 74 fraud related incidents, amounting to over $260,000.00 of lost funds.
Scams that are becoming increasingly prevalent involve providing gift card numbers, cryptocurrency investment scams, and electronic transactions through online marketplaces / buy & sell social groups.
The South Bruce OPP are urging our residents to never provide gift card numbers over the phone or internet, be very cautions of the growing cryptocurrency market and do your research prior to choosing to invest, and never send ‘down-payment’ e-transfers through online marketplaces.
Scammers can be very convincing in their messaging and have the capability to clone phone numbers so that may appear legitimate on your caller ID. Please verify to the best of your ability to know that your money and information is going to legitimate sources so you do not fall victim to everyday scams.
The South Bruce OPP is requesting anyone with information to call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.
