St. Thomas Police are investigating an online wallet scam that has left a local resident short $75,000.
The individual transferred $70,000 to the online wallet to begin investing.
Between March and August of this year, multiple transfers to a third party cleared the entire amount out of the wallet.
The victim then sought the help of an online investigation firm and transferred $5,000 to the company.
That firm is also believed to be fraudulent.
This remains under investigation by members of the Criminal Investigation Branch.
The St. Thomas Police Service reminds residents to stay vigilant against online fraud:
- Verify: Always research and verify the legitimacy of online investment platforms and third-party companies before sharing your financial information.
- Use Reputable Services: Stick to well-known and reputable investment platforms and financial institutions.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect fraud, contact the police immediately. Prompt reporting can make a significant difference in recovering lost funds.
- Educate Yourself: Educate yourself about common online scams and red flags to protect your finances.
Online fraud is on the rise, and scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and your assets from falling victim to such scams.
