Fraud Alert: Scammers Posing as Fire Departments Seeking Donations
Police say scammers are using spoofed numbers and local fire department names to solicit donations in South Bruce.
South Bruce Ontario Provincial Police are warning residents about a fraud scheme in which scammers are impersonating local fire departments and requesting donations over the phone.
Police say the scam involves individuals receiving calls from someone claiming to represent a local fire department. The caller display may appear legitimate, and scammers may use the names of real departments to gain trust.
During the call, the individual asks for donations, often claiming the funds are needed for equipment, training, or fundraising efforts.
At this time, police say two incidents have been reported within the South Bruce OPP detachment area.
In a public advisory, OPP emphasized that local fire departments typically conduct fundraising through in-person events and do not solicit donations by phone.
Residents who receive such calls are being urged to exercise caution and avoid providing money or personal information.
Anyone who believes they have been contacted or victimized is asked to contact police at 1-888-310-1122, or call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
Police are also encouraging anyone targeted by fraud to report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, even if no financial loss occurred.
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