Timmins police warn scam artists are active in the region

Timmins police say fraudsters are falsely claiming to represent police or court services with the scam artists asking people for bail money for loved ones.

The Timmins Police Service issued warnings last week that scam artists are preying on caring individuals in the area.

Timmins police have been receiving reports of variations of the ‘grandparent scam.’

The situation involves a scammer calling someone and claiming to be a legal representative for the victim’s family member.

“Fraudsters may contact you by phone, posing as an officer or representative of the Timmins Police Service or court services. They claim that a family member or friend has been arrested and demand immediate payment for bail,” police said in the news release.

“Often, they use pressure tactics to create a sense of urgency, insisting that you act quickly to avoid further consequences. They will request to attend your residence to pick up the cash payment.”

In most cases when people are in custody, police said that individuals are released with a promise to pay if they don’t meet the conditions of the release.

Officials said police will never ask family members for cash, cryptocurrency or other forms of payment such as gift cards.

“The Timmins Police Service will never contact individuals to request money for bail or any other financial purposes,” continued the release.

“These calls are fraudulent and we urge everyone to remain vigilant and protect their personal and financial information.”

If you get a call

Police offered the following suggestions If you receive a suspicious call:

• Call your loved one, the police or the lawyer’s office back using their official phone number to verify the claim.
• Don’t give out your personal information over the phone or online.
• Say no if you’re feeling pressured.

Additional tips can also be found online at the national Get Cyber Safe blog.

“The Timmins Police Service is committed to keeping our community safe. By staying informed and vigilant, we can work together to prevent fraud and protect one another,” said police.

If you’ve experienced a scam, fraud or cybercrime, it should be reported to local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.