Telephone Scams in Halton

Telephone Scams in Halton The Halton Regional Police is warning citizens against several telephone scams that are operating within the region. Over the past few weeks, residents have reported receiving calls with the following themes: Scam #1: Caller indicates they are from the CRA (Canadian Revenue Agency) and that you owe money for taxes. In some cases, the suspect tells the victim a warrant will be obtained and they will be arrested if they do not make an immediate payment. Payment is requested in the form of gift cards that are not traceable (Amazon, iTunes, Google Play). The victim attends a store, purchases a large quantity of gift cards and gives the caller the personal identification number (PIN) or verification number. Scam #2: Caller indicates they are from your bank and need help to investigate an internal fraud between the bank and another retail store. You have been selected to assist with the investigation and could earn up to $500.00 for your help. The caller then directs you to purchase a large quantity of gift cards (Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, Walmart) and call them back with the PIN. You are told where to purchase the gift cards and cautioned not to disclose the reason or directed to say you are purchasing the cards as gifts for your children or grandchildren. Suspect may also gain remote access to victim's computer (online banking). The promised deposit appears in their daily banking account; however, it is transferred from victim's line of credit/savings unbeknownst to victim. Scam #3: Caller identifying themselves as a bank employee and advises you that one of your credit cards has been compromised. The caller indicates they will deposit a large sum of money into your account (much larger than what you are alleged to have lost), however, you are asked to transfer back a portion of the money. Suspect may gain remote access to victim's computer (online banking). The promised deposit appears in their daily banking account; however, it is transferred from victim's line of credit/savings unbeknownst to victim. Scam #4: Caller indicates they are with some type of police or other law enforcement agency, or a lawyer representing a loved one (they will often use a grandchild and elicit a promise "not to tell" anyone). The caller directs you to initiate a money transfer. The caller is often asking for thousands of dollars to "post bail" for your loved one. Older adults are often the target of this scam because they want to help their grandchild. Please be aware of the following: No government agency, financial institution or legitimate business is ever going to ask you to make payment in gift cards, money transfers or wires. No government agency, financial institution or legitimate business would give you money and ask for a portion to be reimbursed. No government agency, financial institution or legitimate business is ever going to ask you to assist them in an internal fraud or similar style investigation. No law enforcement agency, bailiff or lawyer will contact you asking for bail money to be wire transferred. If you are ever in doubt, please contact the police for assistance. Please safeguard yourself and your loved ones by discussing these scams and what to do when a call like this is received. If you suspect you have been contacted by a scam, hang up immediately.