City police warn of fraud scam

THUNDER BAY -- The Thunder Bay Police Economic Crime Unit is warning citizens about a new fraud scheme that they have been investigating that is leaving some citizens at a financial loss.

Reports are indicating that victim/complaints have received a phone call from an individual stating they are calling from Visa. The caller advises that the customer's credit card has been compromised and purchases have been made on it that do not appear to be valid so their credit card will be cancelled and another one issued. The caller then states they are trying to set up a sting and will ask the customer to assist by transferring money to them and promising that the money will be replaced. Unknown to the customer, the money that is replaced is actually being transferred from their own line of credit or credit card to make it appear the money was returned. The victim is now at a financial loss for the money they transferred. The Thunder Bay Police Service is confirming that this is a fraud and that once the money is transferred; there is little that can be done to get it back.

Investigators are urging citizens to be cautious when speaking to unknown people who call your home. Please be aware that a credit card company will not ask you to assist in a sting of any kind let alone use your own money to assist. If you receive an unexpected incoming call about your banking or financial information, simply hang up and call your bank or credit card company directly. That is your right.

In order to be aware of current frauds or scams, please check out the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website. Remember, knowledge is power. Being armed with the latest information will put citizens in a situation to deal with whatever may come their way.

http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/fraud-escroquerie/types/tax-contribuable/index-eng.htm