Learn the three Rs to protect yourself from falling victim
Media Release
LONDON, ON (February 29, 2024) – Recognize. Reject. Report. Three simple actions that can help prevent you and your loved ones from falling victim to fraud.
March is National Fraud Prevention Month, and the London Police Service Financial Crime Unit will be kicking off a month-long campaign aimed at educating Londoners about fraud tactics, trends, and tricks of the trade.
Fraudsters continue to develop increasingly sophisticated methods to victimize Canadians, while also relying on the basic tricks as well. Take time to learn the signs of a scam or fraud, know how to report it, and share this information with the people around you. One conversation could be all it takes to prevent a friend or family member from falling victim to fraud.
“We’ve all heard the expression, knowledge is power – and knowledge about fraud prevention is the power to protect you, your family, and your friends. Education and awareness continue to be the best strategies to protect against the devastating damage that fraud can cost,” says Detective Sean Harding of the LPS Financial Crime Unit. “While creating personal wealth is crucial to everyone’s financial future – protecting what you’ve earned is equally important. Know the 3 Rs of Fraud Prevention. Recognize, Reject and Report. Recognize that a fraud is occurring. Reject the attempted Fraud. Report the incident to local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC)”.
Over the past two weeks, the Financial Crime Unit has taken reports on the following:
• 20 targeted computer/smart phone
• Seven (7) identity frauds
• 10 credit card/bank frauds
• Four (4) frauds involving cheques
• Numerous alternate types of fraud (i.e. service fraud, romance scams, counterfeit, etc)
“While we have seen massive societal changes created by technological advancements, like the internet and cell phones – we must be aware of the fraud risks that accompany the use of this technology. This new technology comes with new scams, and it is important not only to stay current to the evolution of fraud scams – but also be aware of traditional methods that continue to be used by fraudsters. Globally fraudsters are constantly innovating new scams, using the latest technology, while continuing to rely on methods that have been effective in past frauds. Be aware of these risks, so you are prepared, when and if, fraudsters reach out to you”.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre continues to promote resources exposing “Tricks of the trade: what’s in a fraudster’s toolbox?” so that Canadians and businesses can identify fraud attempts and protect themselves and the people around them. This resource breaks down tactics used by fraudsters and provides a toolbox of actions that you can take, should you find yourself presented with a fraud.
“Continue to educate yourself and others – get the conversation going about fraud,” continues Harding. “Help yourself and your loved ones recognize, reject and report scams and tactics used to entrap victims and perpetrate fraud. By working together, we can prevent these crimes from happening.”
Throughout the month of March, London Police Service will be hosting a series of events for the public to attend in relation to Fraud Prevention and Data Destruction. The events, which are listed below are aimed to help the public Recognize, Reject and Report fraud.
Fraud Prevention Month Information Session
The LPS Financial Crime Unit is hosting a Fraud Prevention Month Information Session at London Police Headquarters on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, from 7 pm – 8:30 pm. The public is invited to learn about common scams and fraud tactics. Registration is available on Eventbrite: Click here to register.
Fraud Prevention Q&A Drop-In Session
The LPS Financial Crime Unit welcomes the public to attend the LPS Community Engagement Centre at Masonville Mall on Thursday, March 21, 2024, from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. to discuss fraud awareness, fraud prevention, the cost of fraud on our community and the latest fraud trends. No registration required.
Data Destruction Event
The LPS Cyber Crime Unit and Financial Crime Unit, along with the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) will be onsite to meet with the public at the Accident Reporting Centre located at 1001 Brydges Street on Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. to securely collect and destroy your data. The ERA will gather and safely dispose of old electronics such as gaming consoles, stereo equipment, desktop computers, laptops, handheld devices, printers, accessories, phone systems, servers, software, and routers.
Follow the London Police Service social media channels, visit our website, and watch for members of our Financial Crime Unit in the community throughout the month as we spread awareness aimed at ensuring no one falls victim to financial crime.
Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to call the London Police Service at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent in online anonymously to London Middlesex Crime Stoppers.