Bracebridge OPP is warning Muskoka residents to be aware of ongoing fraud activity, including the "Grandparent Scam," in the region.
The "Emergency Scam" otherwise known as the "Grandparent Scam," is where a victim receives a call from a person that they are led to believe is a lawyer, police officer or bondsperson claiming there's an emergency and the victim's family member needs cash to get out of jail or have bail posted.
Police say the objective is to play on the victim's emotional reaction and the scammer will then have the victim purchase gift cards or something similar, and then call them back with the codes.
According to officers, victims have lost thousands of dollars when they fall prey to this type of scam.
Police are encouraging people to take precautionary steps before following the scammer's instructions:
- Slow things down, given a bit of time you may realize that the request is suspicious;
- Don't feel pressured to make a decision right away;
- Fact check for accuracy - contact family members or the police to fact check;
- Know that a legitimate creditor will not ask for payment in gift cards.
If you suspect that you or someone you know has been a victim of fraud, you may contact Bracebridge OPP at (888) 310-1122.
Feature image - file photo - Barrie 360
