Peterborough Police are warning the public after a 77-year-old resident was scammed out of almost $8,000.
Police say the victim received a call on April 16 from someone claiming to be with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS). The caller provided a badge number and told the victim they were involved in an investigation related to a package that had been intercepted.
Over the next two days, the victim was instructed to withdraw money from their bank and deposit it through a Bitcoin ATM, with assurances the funds would be returned once the issue was resolved. The caller also encouraged further withdrawals over the weekend.
Police say the victim later realized it was a scam and contacted police.
Safety reminders from police include:
- Be cautious of unsolicited calls from unknown numbers
- Government and law enforcement will not request payment to resolve issues
- Scammers often create urgency to pressure victims into acting quickly
- Speak with a trusted friend or family member before taking action
Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized is urged to contact local police. More information is available at peterboroughpolice.com/fraud.
