The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is alerting residents across the region to an emerging scam trend involving suspects who pose as police officers to defraud victims of substantial amounts of money.

In recent reports, fraudsters have contacted victims by phone while claiming to be members of the OPP. In each case, the suspect used fabricated names, titles, and badge information to gain credibility. Victims were instructed to withdraw large sums of money and either send the funds through cryptocurrency platforms or hand over cash directly. These tactics resulted in significant financial losses, including incidents where victims paid between $6,000 and $13,000 to individuals falsely claiming to be officers.

Police confirm that the names and ranks provided by the scammers do not correspond with any OPP members. Fraudsters often use urgency, intimidation, and fear to pressure victims into complying with their demands.

The OPP is reminding the public of the following fraud prevention strategies:

• Police will never request money, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or financial transfers over the phone.
• Police will never demand immediate payment, threaten arrest, or pressure you to act urgently.
• Do not provide personal information, banking details, PINs, or identification numbers to unsolicited callers.
• Pause and talk to a trusted family member or friend before making any financial decision under pressure.

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be an OPP officer and you are unsure of its legitimacy, you can contact the OPP non emergency line at 1-888-310-1122.

This number can be used to:

• Confirm whether an officer has attempted to contact you
• Report suspicious calls or attempted frauds
• Speak directly with police about fraud related concerns

Residents who have been targeted or victimized by fraud are encouraged to contact police and report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at -888-495-8501 or online at www. antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

The OPP continues to monitor fraud trends and reminds community members that awareness is one of the strongest tools against financial victimization.