Urgent: Your Account is Fraudulent, Please Pay Fine With iTunes Gift Card Immediately.

Official administrations will not contact you via text, or use high pressure tactics.”

By Sierra Slade, Marketing —

There are several hundred police units around the world who have seen a rise in online fraud. Some of these scam people out of hundreds of dollars. In Hamilton, Ontario Canada, the police major fraud unit has seen a rise of people falling victim to scams.

Gift Cards

Some of the scams involve criminals who impersonate government officials. These officials are directing the victims to pay pressing fines. The kicker, they ask that the fines are paid using pre-paid gift cards, bitcoin, iTunes giftcards, and Western Union money orders.

Don’t Call Back

Police are stating that this scam is not a new type of scam, it just seems to continue to work for these criminals. An example, a recorded call directs the person to immediately call back to avoid fines or prosecution. Hamilton Police are advising residents to not call back, officially stating that government agencies will not demand money, will not use high pressure tactics, or require payment with gift cards.

Just Say No

Sadly, this type of fraudulent activity is focused on the elderly and trusting individuals. Police recommend that individuals discuss these scams with neighbors, friends, family, strangers, anyone who will listen. Who knows, you could be helping you neighbor just by mentioning a scam. When in doubt, hang up the phone or delete the email.

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