Essex County OPP are warning the public of a new scam targeting individuals through fraudulent cell phone upgrade offers. Police say fraudsters pose as representatives of legitimate telecommunications companies, (Rogers, Bell, Telus, etc). Police say it is being reported across Ontario They contact victims and say they are eligible for a free or low-cost upgrade to their cell phone. To process the offer, the fraudster requests personal information, which the victim provides believing the offer is legitimate. After the victim receives a new cell phone, the fraudster contacts them again, claiming the incorrect device was shipped by mistake. The victim is then instructed to return the phone using shipping information provided by the fraudster. Victims then send the phone to the fraudster, while believing they are returning the device to the telecommunications company. As a result, the victim may be left responsible for the cost of the device, associated service charges, or additional fraudulent activity on their account. OPP tips to protect yourself: Anyone who believes they have been the victim of this scam should report the incident to their local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. If personal or financial information has been compromised, contact your telecommunications provider and financial institution immediately to secure your accounts. OPP encourage the public to share this information with family members and friends, particularly seniors and other individuals who may be targeted by fraudsters.
