Fraud Alerts
Fraud Prevention Month: Be aware of service scams
Service scams target victims by trying to convince them that they owe outstanding balances for a utility or service provider, or that they are owed a refund. The caller may claim that the victim’s hydro, or internet service will be cut off immediately if payment is...
Fraud Prevention Month – Mortgage Frauds
Buying a home is likely the biggest financial transaction most people will take part in, and homebuyers should be aware of a new type of fraud that could have a big impact on your purchase. After gaining access to sensitive information about your real estate...
Fraud Friday – Be aware of investment scams
There’s a reason why they’re called get rich quick “schemes”. More often than not, they’re a fraud. If you are presented with an unsolicited investment opportunity, even from someone you know, an investment opportunity that has a higher than normal return, or if...
Fraud Prevention Month
March is Fraud Prevention Month and throughout the month we’ll be sharing Fraud Alerts and additional information on how to recognize, reject and report fraud. Visit www.barriepolice.ca/Fraud-Prevention for more information. In 2022, the CAFC received fraud reports...
Beware of Grandparent Scams this Holiday Season
As the holidays approach, Barrie Police are reminding the public that fraudsters will use any opportunity – even the festive season – to take advantage of others. At this time of year, grandparents might expect a call from a grandchild they haven’t seen in a while,...
Fraud Alert: Scam targeting Alectra customers
The Barrie Police Service Fraud Unit has received reports recently from businesses in the Barrie area reporting that they have been targeted by fraudsters claiming to be from Alectra Utilities. The caller claims that they are from Alectra and that the victim’s hydro...
Fraud Alert: How to report fraud
If you suspect you may be a target of fraud, or if you have already sent funds, don’t be embarrassed – you’re not alone. If you have been a victim, reporting fraud for police to investigate helps to identify trends or link crimes. Gathering all information related to...
Fraud Alert: Online Marketplace Scams
Online marketplaces can be a great source for deals, but only if you are careful to watch for fraudulent postings. Popular online marketplace sites or social networks may have fraudulent advertisements posted within them. Fraudsters may also create websites that...
Romance / Catfishing Scams
Social media can be a great way to stay connected to friends and family and to meet new connections. Unfortunately, it’s also a great place for fraudsters looking to carry out a romance scam. Romance scams may start out looking like any other friendship or...
Fraud Prevention Month – Wire Fraud: Diverting Real Estate Closing Costs
Buying a home is likely the biggest financial transaction most people will take part in, and homebuyers should be aware of a new type of fraud that could have a big impact on your purchase. After gaining access to sensitive information about your real estate...
Reporting Fraud
If you suspect you may be a target of fraud, or if you have already sent funds, don’t be embarrassed – you’re not alone.
If you want to report a fraud, or if you need more information, contact The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
By phone:
1-888-495-8501
9a.m. – 4:45 p.m., M-F
Eastern Time
Online:
CAFC Fraud Reporting System