Police are making the call and alerting the public about cellphone service provider fraud.
East Region OPP says the scam involves fraudsters contacting victims while posing as representatives of a legitimate cellphone service provider.
The scammer may offer a discount, upgraded plan, or a new device in an attempt to gain the victim’s trust and, while remaining on the phone, they direct victims to log in to their legitimate cellphone account and then request account details, security codes, or other personal information.
Victims may then be asked to provide identification, such as a driver’s licence, and once the device is delivered, the fraudster claims the wrong item was shipped and instructs the victim to send it to another address.
As a result, victims may be left responsible for the cost of the devices and any associated account charges.
Police say some tips to follow to avoid being scammed are to end the call and contact the company directly if you get a call from someone claiming to be with your phone company and never rely on contact information provided by the caller.
If you believe you have been targeted by this scam, contact your bank, police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre immediately.
