Police are reminding people to be careful about the information they share over the phone.
During the past week, Halifax police became aware of a series of phone scams targeting seniors. The scammers pose as a family member who says they’ve been arrested and are in jail. A second scammer then takes the phone and pretends to be part of the legal system. This second scammer then tells the victim that for their family member to be released, they will have to pay money. In one case, the scammers arranged to pick up the money from the victim in person.
Police are advising anyone who receives a call like this hang up and not share any of their personal information. In Canada, law enforcement and court officials will not attend a residence to collect money in relation to bail.
If you think you’ve been scammed or were the victim of identity theft, contact your local police station. You can report a scam where you haven’t been a victim to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or call 1-888-495-8501.
For more information and scam prevention tips, visit the Halifax Regional Police fraud prevention website.
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