Cobourg police are warning residents to be cautious of gift card scams and impersonation fraud on social media after a local woman was defrauded out of $1,200.
Police say a 71-year-old Cobourg woman reported being contacted online by someone claiming to be associated with a television show after she commented on a fan page for the program.
The scammer offered the woman a so-called “VIP membership” and asked for payment using gift card codes. Police say the victim sent the money and later lost $1,200.
Investigators say the scam continued when the victim was told she could attend the TV set if she deposited a cheque the scammer had sent and then forwarded the funds.
When she visited her financial institution, bank staff recognized the signs of fraud and intervened before more money was lost.
Police say the victim had no verifiable contact information for the suspect and all communication happened only through social media.
Cobourg police are reminding residents that legitimate businesses and organizations will never request payment through gift cards or ask someone to deposit a cheque and send money back.
They also warn that scammers frequently use gift cards and cryptocurrency because those payments are difficult to trace and cannot usually be recovered.
Residents are encouraged to slow down, ask questions, and speak with a trusted family member, friend, or financial institution before sending money.
Anyone who believes they may be the target of a scam is asked to contact Cobourg police or report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
