Midwestern Ontario OPP detachments want residents to recognize scammers during Fraud Prevention Month throughout March.
Dating scams, and Canada Revenue scams are costing local residents money.
Grey County OPP say a Southgate resident was duped out of $18,000 she sent to an online love interest in Nigeria. Police say the victim met someone online claiming to be born in England, but living in Nigeria. The fraudster asked for money to ship containers from Florida to Newfoundland, and the victim sent several money orders. Her bank intervened when she tried to transfer money between accounts so she could send even more money. So then the fraudster suggested she borrow money for him.
In Perth County, a Listowel man met a woman claiming to be from West Africa on the dating site "Plenty of Fish." After building a relationship, she asked for money to come for a visit, and he sent her $5,000 before realizing he was being scammed.
Meanwhile, a Grey County resident sent $38,000 to a caller who threatened arrest unless he paid back taxes to the CRA. Sometimes the scammers claim you have a refund but they need your banking information.
Every year, thousands of Canadians fall victim to fraud amassing losses in the millions of dollars. Regardless of age, gender and location, everyone can take basic steps to better protect themselves from becoming victims of fraud. Some basic tips include never giving out personal information at your door, over the phone, through social media, or on dating websites.
Other types of scams include Microsoft/Computer scams, Phishing/Bank Web Site scams and Lottery scams.
“Dating and romance scams have a profound impact on victims, both emotionally and financially.
Scammers will invest time to form false relationships in order to gain trust and steal money.
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), in 2014 there were 1,467 complaints from Canada of romance fraud. Of those complaints, 998 victims were identified and their combined financial losses exceeded $13.9-million, second only to wire fraud.
Scammers can easily steal photos online and use dating sites and social media to lure victims into sending money for various reasons.
They spend time creating a relationship, and might even send small gifts.