The Aylmer Police Service is urging residents to stay alert after investigating an ongoing fraud that has cost a local senior thousands of dollars.
Police say on July 12, the victim visited the Aylmer Police Service believing a large cash prize from a charitable foundation had been intercepted by police. An investigation revealed the individual had been communicating with fraudsters posing as well-known public figures and representatives of a charitable organization.
Over several months, the victim was convinced to purchase gift cards and send the card codes after being promised a substantial cash payment. Despite repeated assurances the prize was legitimate, no money was ever received.
Investigators believe multiple suspects may have been involved, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Police are reminding the public that legitimate lotteries and charities never require payment to claim a prize, and gift cards are never an acceptable form of payment for legitimate businesses or organizations. Residents are also encouraged to be cautious of unsolicited messages from people claiming to be celebrities or other public figures.
Anyone who believes they have been the victim of fraud is asked to contact the Aylmer Police Service or report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Written by: myFM News
