Victim lost $17,000 to bank fraud scammer; employee helped prevent further loss

An employee at Rexall in Picton went above and beyond to convince a person not to become a victim of scam involving gift cards.

Prince Edward OPP Acting Sergeant Aaron Miller said a report was received last week from an individual who said they lost $17,000 to scammers.

“The individual received a call from someone claiming to work in the fraud department of the bank. The instructions directed the individual to deposit money into a local cryptocurrency ATM. The suspect then directed the individual to purchase additional gift cards. The individual went to Rexall in Picton where an employee went above and beyond by stopping the individual from being further victimized and directed them to the OPP.”

“The OPP would like to thank employees for being vigilant of gift card sales as it makes a difference.”

Miller reminds that fraudsters are clever and will often have an answer for any question. To protect from victimization, follow these tips:
Do not be afraid to say no
Do your research
Do not give out personal information
Ask for credentials- know who you’re dealing with
If it’s too good to be true, it likely is!

Fraudsters often target vulnerable populations. Share this information with others, especially those vulnerable, to prevent victimization. Visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for more information.