GUELPH – Guelph Police is again warning the public to be cautious when dealing with individuals online after a Guelph resident lost more than $6,000 in a cryptocurrency scam.
The victim called police Monday evening and advised in February they began communicating with two individuals online.
Police say this led to the victim providing nearly $6,200 which they thought was to be invested in cryptocurrency. When they attempted to withdraw funds a week ago the victim was asked to pay a $5,000 processing fee.
They instead called police.
Residents are encouraged to be wary of any telephone call, email or text which requires you to take immediate action.
Police say it is always best to independently contact the supposed sender and confirm the legitimacy of the correspondence before taking action. Funds sent through cryptocurrency are almost impossible to recover.
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.
