The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is warning residents of persistent and increasing “emergency scams” occurring across Halton.
Between the dates of September 26th and October 3rd, 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 March, FM 101 Milton spoke with Detective Derek Gray with the Halton Regional Police Service Elder Abuse and Financial Crime unit for Fraud Prevention Month. He says residents should be aware of what is often referred to as the ‘Grandson Scam’.
He adds that the people will ask for money to cover non-existent charges. It might be $5000 to cover some fake legal bills, and that it has to be in cash. Someone will come to pick up the money, and then they could call again asking for me money. They’ll say that someone was injured in the accident and now there are more legal bills. The scammers will try to get as much money as possible out of it.
Detective Gray says many of the scams they cover will feature a theme of secrecy. The fraudsters will propose being secretive about the money because “I don’t want my parents to be mad.” He says you’ll have to put your brain to work when it comes to these scams.
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.