Detectives from the Niagara Regional Police Central Fraud Unit continue to investigate incidents of the “grandparent scam” in Niagara.
Since February 2, 2022, there have ben 44 documented incidents of scammers targeting the vulnerable. In 10 incidents scammers were able steal in excess of $120,000. In another 34 attempts scammers tried unsuccessfully to steal over $200,000 from vulnerable victims.
In an effort to protect the vulnerable victims from scams we would like to ask the public to take a “NRP me plus three” approach to scams. Seek out information from an official source, educate yourself and then educate three persons in your life who may be vulnerable to becoming victims of scam crime. #NRPMePlus3
Information about scams can be found on the NRPS website or at the Canadian Anti Fraud Website.
NRPS Fraud Awareness Canadian Anti Fraud Information
We would also like to appeal to corporate Canada to develop protocols at the point of sale that protect vulnerable persons who may be caught in a scam. E.g., When seeing a vulnerable person purchasing thousands of dollars in gift cards or making large banking withdrawls, intervene.
Safety tips:
Never confirm any personal information over the phone. Always verify who is calling. Don’t be pressured. Stop. Take some time to process what you have been told, to see if it makes sense. Ask a trusted friend or family member for their opinion. If you’re in doubt, call your local police service.
If you have any information about suspects involved in the grandparent scam you are asked to contact detectives at 905-688-4111, option 3, 1009076.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.
Click Here For Crime Stoppers Online
Related Media Releases
Niagara Falls “Grand Parent” Scam Victim Out $11,000.
Grandparent Scam Warning