THUNDER BAY – The Thunder Bay Police Service is warning the public about a scam impersonating municipal election candidates that has defrauded at least one local resident out of hundreds of dollars.
The victim was contacted by email by a fraudster impersonating a local mayoral candidate, police said.
The fraudster had requested gift cards to provide to their campaign staff and volunteers.
Further investigation revealed the email did not come from the mayoral candidate, according to a statement from the TBPS.
The force warned the scam may be using various means including telephone and email to reach would-be victims.
“The Thunder Bay Police Service would like to remind residents to be skeptical of any unsolicited phone calls, emails, or home visits by any organization, financial or government institution,” the police service said. “This includes people claiming to be running for public office or people claiming to be staff or volunteers of municipal candidates.”
“You have the right to hang up the phone, delete emails, or close your door.”
If residents wish to verify the authenticity of a candidate or company that has contacted them, the TBPS suggested finding official contact information independently, and contacting them to follow up on the claims.
“Never use the contact information provided to you by the suspected fraudster,” the force advised.
Residents can find more information about protecting themselves from such scams through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s website.
