Ottawa residents are being warned to stay alert for a growing scam targeting people across the National Capital Region. Police in Gatineau, Que., recently arrested two individuals accused of allegedly impersonating police officers and conducting fraud, marking the latest example of what authorities say is an escalating problem affecting communities on both sides of the river.
How the Scam Works
According to police, the fraudsters typically contact victims by phone, claiming to be law enforcement officers. They then pressure victims into sending money or providing personal information under the threat of legal consequences or arrest. The scammers are sophisticated in their approach, often using spoofed phone numbers that appear to be from legitimate police departments or government agencies. Some victims report receiving calls that appear to come directly from the Ottawa Police Service or RCMP, making it even more convincing to unsuspecting recipients.
Recent Gatineau Arrests
The two suspects arrested in Gatineau this week were caught actively conducting the fraud scheme when police intervened. The arrests represent a significant law enforcement operation in stopping the scam in its tracks, but authorities warn that similar schemes are still operating across the region, targeting vulnerable residents including seniors and newcomers unfamiliar with Canadian law enforcement procedures.
Protecting Yourself in Ottawa
Ottawa police and the RCMP are urging residents to be aware of the red flags that indicate a scam. Legitimate police officers will never call demanding immediate payment or threatening arrest over the phone. If you receive such a call:
- Hang up immediately
- Never provide personal or financial information
- Do not wire money or use gift cards for payment
- Do not share banking details or credit card information
- Call your local police non-emergency line to report the incident
- Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501
A Growing Problem Across Canada
Police say impersonation fraud is becoming increasingly common in Ottawa and across Canada. Scammers are using more sophisticated tactics to appear legitimate, including spoofed caller IDs, scripted conversations referencing real police procedures, and knowledge of victims' personal information. The RCMP reports that victims have lost millions of dollars to these schemes in recent years, with some individual victims losing tens of thousands.
If you or someone you know believes they've been targeted by this scam or have already lost money, contact your local police department or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Report the incident even if you didn't provide any money or information—it helps law enforcement track patterns and catch perpetrators.
Source: CBC Ottawa
