Waterloo Regional Police have investigated 12 reported extortion scams since January, with a combined financial loss of approximately $1.76 million. The scam involves phone calls to people from purported courier companies or law enforcement agencies. The messages claim the person is accused of being part of a fraud scheme and is under investigation. The scammers then demand money to keep the matter from escalating. Police reminded people that law enforcement agencies will not require payment from you. Do not follow instructions from automated Mandarin-speaking callers and beware of requests to send money to bank accounts in China or Hong Kong. Do not give out personal or bank details over the phone. If you have been the victim of an extortion scam, report it to the police and file a complaint with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 519-570-9777 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. You can also submit anonymous tips at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com. SHARE:
