Ontario Provincial Police are warning residents about a cellphone service provider scam after receiving reports from across the East Region.
Police say fraudsters pose as legitimate cellphone company representatives and offer discounts, upgraded plans or new devices. They may ask victims to log into their real cellphone accounts and provide passwords, PINs or security codes.
In some cases, scammers convince victims to open accounts with another provider and obtain a cellphone or tablet. Victims may be asked for identification, including a driver’s licence or Social Insurance Number.
After a device is delivered, the fraudster may claim the wrong item was shipped and instruct the victim to send it to another address. Victims can then be left responsible for device and account charges.
Police advise residents to end unexpected calls and contact their provider directly using verified contact information. People should never share security codes or personal information with unsolicited callers.
Suspected fraud should be reported to local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
