Bracebridge OPP is warning the public about ongoing scams in Muskoka after two recent incidents resulted in victims losing thousands of dollars.
According to police, officers responded to two separate fraud reports on February 9.
In one case, scammers contacted a victim by phone and claimed they were collecting gift cards to help people in need in the community. Believing the request was legitimate, the victim purchased the gift cards and provided the information to the caller, resulting in a large financial loss.
The second incident involved what police describe as an “emergency scam,” also commonly known as the “grandparent scam.” In this scenario, the victim received a phone call claiming a family member was in immediate danger and needed money. Police said these types of calls can be emotional and stressful, and the victim ultimately lost thousands of dollars to the scam.
According to the OPP, fraudsters often rely on pressure tactics and emotional manipulation to prompt quick, impulsive decisions. Many scams involve the use of technology and requests for digital payments or personal information.
Police remind residents that scammers can target anyone and are encouraging the public to take steps to protect themselves. Tips include refusing unsolicited requests for money, slowing down and verifying information with a trusted source, and never sharing personal or financial details such as addresses, birthdates, social insurance numbers, or banking information.
The OPP also advises the public to be cautious of urgent-looking messages, use strong passwords to protect online accounts, never click on links received through unsolicited emails or text messages, and be aware of spoofing, a tactic that allows scammers to disguise phone numbers, email addresses, or text messages to appear legitimate.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted by a scam is encouraged to report it to police.
