the OPP
The Fort Frances OPP recently investigated a fraud concerning a financial transaction through a money wiring service.
The victim of this particular crime received a letter indicating they owed the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in the amount of $2,850.
In return for sending the cash through a money wiring service, the victim would receive a prize and be considered as a grand prize winner.
The letter stated the money had to be sent by 5 p.m. that same day.
There was a 1-866 phone number attached to the letter of request.
The police are here to help protect the residents of their communities, but there are things you can do to help protect yourself from scams.
Remember to be cautious, be aware! If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Never provide your personal financial information to someone in order to be able to receive a prize.
Be aware that if the caller is setting a timeframe or making the product or prize available for a limited time in order to get you to act now or miss out, it is probably a scam.
Be cautious! And remember “buyer beware.”
You have the right to check out any caller by requesting written information, a call back number, references, and time to think over the offer.
Legitimate business people will be happy to provide you with that information. Those who are involved in scams will apply pressure to get you to act quickly without having time to think it over and ask questions.
If you have doubts about a caller, it is wise to ask someone else for help, like a relative, close friend, or banker.
A resource that’s also available to everyone is “Phonebusters” at 1-888-495-8501.
