St. Thomas, ON – Saturday March 2nd, 2024
Recently, the St. Thomas Police Service has received a concerning uptick in reports of fraud and scams targeting members of our community.
To safeguard yourself against these fraudulent activities, we urge you to remain vigilant and informed.
Here are some essential tips to help protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Seek a Second Opinion: Whenever you encounter a suspicious situation online, via text message or email always seek a second opinion from trusted family members or friends. Their perspective might offer valuable insights and help you make informed decisions.
- Verify Legitimacy: Before engaging with individuals or organizations online, take the necessary steps to verify their legitimacy. Be cautious of unsolicited messages or requests, and always validate the identity of the person you’re corresponding with.
- Beware of Unconventional Communication Channels: Employers or businesses typically do not reach out to individuals through messaging apps like WhatsApp. Exercise caution if you receive job offers or requests for sensitive information through such platforms.
- Trust Your Instincts: If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a family member or relative, and the situation seems suspicious, trust your instincts. Hang up immediately and contact the person directly using the phone number you have on file for them.
- Avoid Unusual Requests: No legitimate employer will ask you to invest your own money or purchase gift cards as part of a job requirement. If you encounter such requests, consider them red flags, refrain from complying and contact police.
- Utilize Trusted Resources: Familiarize yourself with current scams and fraud schemes by utilizing reputable resources such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Stay informed about common tactics used by scammers and learn additional ways to protect yourself online.
- Remain Cautious: Remember, if something seems too good to be true or raises suspicions, it likely is. Trust your judgment and err on the side of caution when interacting with unfamiliar individuals or businesses online.
By following these proactive measures and remaining vigilant, together, we can combat online scams and fraud effectively. The St. Thomas Police Service is dedicated to serving and protecting our community, and your safety remains our top priority.
If you believe you have been targeted or victimized by online scams or fraud, please don’t hesitate to report the incident to the St. Thomas Police Service, immediately. Stay safe, stay informed, and stay vigilant.
