NEWS RELEASE GUELPH POLICE SERVICE
Residents are reminded to be extremely cautious when dealing with individuals online after a man lost approximately $32,000 in a cryptocurrency scam.
A Guelph woman called police Wednesday to report her father, who is in his 70s, clicked on a Facebook link in January which led him to a supposed investment site. Since then, he has transferred more than $30,000 to various cryptocurrency accounts.
The scam came to light when the victim’s daughter learned his bank account had been cleaned out.
Residents should be very weary when dealing with anyone not personally known to them, including any online communication. Do not click on links sent by unknown senders or provide any personal information. Take steps to verify the other party’s identity.
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.
