Barrie Police is urging retailers - and any other potential victims - to come forward after two suspects allegedly pulled off a gift‑card distraction scam at a Bayfield Street store.
Police say they were contacted on Sept. 17, after staff noticed a cash shortage tied to gift‑card transactions. Investigators learned two suspects entered the store around 8:30 p.m., selected several gift cards, and asked the cashier to load money onto them.
According to police, one suspect distracted the cashier while the second quietly swapped the loaded cards for empty ones. The pair then requested their money back, claiming they would return with smaller bills. Once the cash was refunded, the suspects left, taking the loaded cards with them.
Police say these suspects may be linked to nearly three dozen similar gift‑card frauds across Ontario.
Barrie's News Delivered To Your Inbox
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Central Ontario Broadcasting, 431 Huronia Rd, Barrie, Ontario, CA, https://www.cobroadcasting.com. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
Police warn retailers about distraction tactics
Investigators encourage retail employees to stay alert for distraction techniques, which can include “repeated questions, acting confused, engaging in conversation, becoming agitated, or accusing the cashier of some wrong‑doing.”
They also recommend that staff keep gift cards in their possession until the transaction is fully completed to prevent fraudulent swaps.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted in a similar incident is urged to contact police or review store footage for suspicious activity.
