GUELPH/FERGUS – Local police are once again reminding residents to be careful when dealing with unknown individuals online, after two women lost nearly $50,000 combined in cryptocurrency scams.
“In both recent cases, the victims clicked on Facebook ads featuring images of Prime Minister Mark Carney and promoting supposed investment opportunities,” Guelph Police stated in a June 9 press release.
“Both were then contacted by someone claiming to be a financial advisor and provided instructions on how to purchase and send cryptocurrency.”
Guelph Police officials say a 74-year-old woman lost more than $38,000, while in a separate case a 59-year-old woman lost nearly $11,000.
A Fergus resident told the Advertiser she too has been approached about an investment scam using the likeness of the prime minister.
“Residents are encouraged to be cautious when clicking on links or visiting websites,” Guelph Police stated.
“Be wary of any telephone call, email or text which requires you to take immediate action.
“It is always best to independently contact the supposed sender and confirm the legitimacy of the correspondence before taking action.
“Cryptocurrency scams are particularly difficult to investigate and the odds of recovering losses is almost zero.”
Anyone who suspects they have been the victim of cybercrime or fraud should report it to their local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
“Even if no financial loss has been sustained, interactions can still be reported to the CAFC,” police state.
