This is Seniors’ Safety Week and city police have a number of tips for people to recognize common scams and help prevent fraud.
“Fraud targeting older adults is a significant concern,” says Deputy Chief Robert Norman. “We continue to see higher rates of fraud victimization in older adults, but the real extent is difficult to measure because many incidents go unreported.”
He adds fraud can happen to anyone, and they want everyone to know there is no shame in reporting.
Norman says reports help police identify trends and prevent others from becoming victims.
Police say fraudsters use deception, urgency and fear to pressure victims into sharing personal information or sending money.
Fraud Prevention Tips:
· Never share passwords, PINs, banking information or verification codes.
· Verify requests directly with organizations using a trusted phone number.
· Be suspicious of urgent requests for money or demands for secrecy.
· Never send money, gift cards or cryptocurrency to someone you have only met online.
· Never give an unexpected caller remote access to your computer.
· Review bank statements and account activity regularly. Question unfamiliar transactions.
· Seek independent advice before signing financial documents or granting someone access to accounts.
To help protect yourself, always follow the “TAKE 5, TELL 2” fraud prevention strategy. Pause to think and consult two trusted people before acting.
Police say common scams include:
· Emergency and grandparent scams: Someone impersonates a family member in trouble and urgently requests money.
· Romance scams: Fraudsters build online relationships to gain trust before asking for money.
· Investment fraud: Fake opportunities promise high returns or guaranteed profits.
· Bank and government impersonation: Scammers pose as trusted organizations to obtain personal or banking information.
· Phishing and identity theft: Fraudulent emails, texts and websites attempt to steal personal information.
· Technology support scams: Scammers claim a device has a problem and request payment or remote access.
· Home improvement scams: Fraudsters offer unnecessary repairs or services, often using high-pressure sales tactics.
· Prize and lottery scams: Victims are told they have won a prize but must pay fees to collect it.
Officials say financial abuse can also involve someone known to the victim.
They say this includes unauthorized use of bank cards or financial accounts, pressure to change financial documents or misuse of Power of Attorney. Financial exploitation can occur within trusted relationships, including those involving family members or caregivers.
If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud, police ask you to call 705-472-1234 to speak with an officer or call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
For more information about common scams, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
