The “Emergency” finds another victim

A 56 year old Port Hope woman has fallen victim to the “Parent Scam” after she received a phone call from someone purporting to be her daughter.  On the 16th of January shortly after noon the frantic female caller said that she had been involved in an accident in Gatineau Quebec and was arrested for impaired driving and needed $1000.00 for bail. A male caller then came on the phone who said he was the daughter’s lawyer and advised the money could be wired via western union. Unfortunately the woman wired the money.  Another call was received thereafter requesting another $900.00 for a fine.  That money was also wired.  Both money transfers went to a generic location in Quebec.

Port Hope Police advises if someone receives a call like this for them to remain calm. The callers intend to frighten intended victims into making irrational decision by personating a family member in crises and they are very convincing.  It would only take a few minutes to confirm or deny the information. Call local Police for assistance and do not send any money until you are sure the information is accurate.  Here are some other tips in order to protect oneself from this scam.

Remember

Scammers are counting on the fact that you will want to act quickly to help your loved ones in an emergency.

Caution

Never send money to anyone you don't know and trust. Verify the person's identity before you take any steps to help.

Think

Don't give out any personal information to the caller

Investigate

Ask the person questions that only your loved one would be able to answer. Call the child's parents or friends to verify the story.

Ask yourself

Does the caller's story make sense?

For more information on scams select the following link

http://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/site/cb-bc.nsf/eng/03074.html#s8_0