Ontario Provincial Police have arrested three suspects believed to be involved in a police impersonation scam that has been costing victims in Ottawa and across Ontario thousands of dollars.
What Is Happening
According to OPP, fraudsters are contacting victims by phone and impersonating police officers. The callers convince victims that they are under investigation or have been involved in some kind of financial crime, and pressure them into transferring large sums of money, often under the pretense of "protecting" their funds or paying fake fines.
An Ottawa officer has confirmed that some victims in the region have lost thousands of dollars to this scheme. The scam is sophisticated enough that victims, including seniors and otherwise cautious individuals, have been deceived.
Arrests Made
Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the scam. OPP have not released details about the identities of the individuals or where the calls originated, but the investigation is ongoing.
How to Protect Yourself
Police are reminding Ottawa-area residents that real police officers will never call you and demand money over the phone. Here are some key tips:
- Hang up immediately if someone calls claiming to be police and asks for money
- Do not send e-transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to anyone claiming to be law enforcement
- If in doubt, hang up and call your local police station directly using a number you look up yourself
- Report suspicious calls to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or antifraudcentre.ca
Why It Matters
Fraud is on the rise in Canada, and police impersonation scams are among the most effective because they exploit people's trust in authority. If you or someone you know has been contacted by someone claiming to be a police officer and requesting money, contact OPP or Ottawa Police Service immediately.
Source: CBC Ottawa
