Mail Courier Scam Targeting Citizens

Police are warning citizens of a scam involving fraudulent phone calls from a courier service.

The Financial Crime Unit of the Integrated Criminal Investigation Division is investigating complaints from citizens who have been contacted by a suspect claiming to be from a courier service.

The suspect advises the victim that they have a package to be delivered to the victim’s address, however, prior to delivery they require the victim’s and their spouses phone number. The next day or shortly thereafter the victim receives a call from what appears to be their spouse’s phone number. The suspect identifies himself as an employee with Canada Revenue Agency or Canada Border Services and tells the victim that their spouse has been arrested and to have him/her released they must send funds using a bitcoin machine or purchase Apple iTunes cards.

The phone calls are not legitimate. If you receive such a call, hang up.

Police remind citizens to be wary of any calls or emails asking for money and to make sure the situation is legitimate before sending money. You should also refrain from providing personal information, whether the solicitation occurs by telephone, email or in person, unless you have initiated the contact or you are certain of the identification of the person and the legitimacy of the organization they claim to represent. Providing personal information such as your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and date of birth could lead to identity theft.

If you’ve lost money or provided personal information as a result of this scam, please report the matter to your local police. There is no need to call police to report that you’ve been contacted in relation to this scam if you’re not a victim.

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Source : Media Release