Suspects used smart glasses, other AI tools to commit ‘organized’ retail fraud across GTA: Toronto police

Left to right: Danibros Flores, 49. Top: Lord Jeffrey Gelera, 49, Paul Paje, 44, Vince Villaluz, 26. Bottom: Nixcel Gamayon, 44, Remfrance Jusi, 41, Ronald Reyes, 40. (Toronto Police Service handout)

Toronto police say arrests have been made in an “organized” retail fraud where suspects used “AI-enabled tools,” including smart glasses, to distract and capture employee login credentials and passwords.

According to police, the frauds occurred between September 2025 and February 2026 at retail locations across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

“Suspects used AI-enabled tools, including smart glasses and cellular devices, along with distraction techniques to capture employee login credentials and passwords,” police said in a news release issued Friday.

“The captured credentials were then used to access store systems and fraudulently load funds onto gift cards through self-checkout terminals.”

Following an investigation, police were able to use surveillance footage to identify 112 occurrences connected to the scheme.

Police said many retail locations suffered “significant financial losses” as a result of the fraud.

The total losses from the incidents are estimated to be about $500,000, Det. David Coffey, of the financial crimes unit, told CP24.

Seven individuals face charges in connection with the investigation. The offences include fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, and using a computer system with intent to commit an offence.

Investigators say they believe there may be more victims and images of the suspects have now been released.

“The Toronto Police Service is reminding the public and retail employees to take precautions to protect sensitive information,” the news release continued, offering tips to prevent similar incidents.

“Be aware of individuals attempting to observe or record login credentials in public or workplace settings.”

Police also advise employees to “report suspicious activity immediately” to management or police.

“Shield PINs and passwords when entering them into devices or terminals,” the news release continued.

“Be cautious of distractions or unusual behaviour around point-of-sale systems.”

Coffey said two of the suspects, Danibros Flores and Remfrance Jusi, are wanted on Canada-wide warrants.

“We are hoping that they will see this and turn themselves in,” he added.

The other suspects have all made their first court appearances and are currently out on bail, Coffey confirmed.