The Greater Sudbury Police Service would like to remind the public that with the increased excitement and joy of the holiday season the risks for scams are also increased.
Over the next few weeks, protect yourself by being vigilant. Please take the time to spread this message to anyone you may be caring for; senior citizen or other vulnerable adult to be cautious of these scams that may be occurring.
Some potential risk areas include;
Shopping:
Online:
i. Don’t enter personal information on sites unless you know it is a genuine website
ii. Check the website address carefully: sometimes scammers will set up fake websites
Traditional:
i. When buying something that is a name brand, go to the real store. Purses, watches and clothing can easily be made to look like the real brand, but marketed at a discounted rate.
ii. Be wary of buying gift cards from third parties, often they can be fake and the money you thought was on it never was.
Traveling: Before you book your holiday travel flights and hotels, keep in mind fraudsters can create an almost identical website to the one you intended to book through.
Refunds: The most common types of return fraud involve returning:
i. Stolen merchandise
ii. Fraudulently purchased merchandise
iii. Used merchandise
iv. Merchandise using forged receipts
Fake Charities: One of the biggest scams during the holidays because people are in the ‘giving mood’ we open our hearts and our wallets, however you may be giving to a fake charity. Ask for the charity number and check it on the Canada Revenue Agency website.
Follow GSPS on Facebook and/or Twitter for preventative tips and how to avoid some of the risks this holiday season. #HolidayScams.
