The release indicated that scammers are reaching out to victims while pretending to be representatives of a real cellphone service provider.
“They may offer a discount, upgraded plan, or a new device in an attempt to gain the victim’s trust. While remaining on the phone, they direct victims to log in to their legitimate cellphone account and then request account details, security codes, or other personal information,” police detailed.
“In some cases, fraudsters convince victims to open an account with a different service provider and obtain a new cellphone or tablet. To complete the transaction, victims may be asked to provide identification, such as a driver’s licence or Social Insurance Number (SIN). Once the device is delivered, the fraudster claims the wrong item was shipped and instructs the victim to send it to another address.
As a result, victims may be left responsible for the cost of the devices and any associated account charges, according to the OPP.
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The fraudulent calls claiming to be from cellphone service providers have been occurring across the OPP East Region (pictured here), according to police. Graphic via OPP East Region.
In their release, police provided some warning signs related to this type of fraud:
You receive an unsolicited call, text message, or email offering a discount, upgraded plan, or new device. The caller pressures you to act immediately or claims the offer is available for a limited time only. You are asked to log in to your cellphone account while the caller remains on the line. You are asked to provide your account password, PIN, security code, or multi-factor authentication code. You are asked to provide personal identification such as a driver’s licence or Social Insurance Number. You are encouraged to open an account with a different service provider. You receive a cellphone or tablet and are instructed to send it somewhere else. The address provided does not match your verified address of the service provider.
The OPP also suggested some ways you can protect yourself:
If someone contacts you claiming they’re from your service provider, hang up and reach out directly using contact info from your bill or official website. Don’t rely on any information given by unknown callers. Never share passwords, PINs, security codes or multi-factor authentication codes. Do not provide personal information during unexpected calls or messages. Avoid logging into your accounts while being directed by someone you don’t know. Before opening an account or accepting any devices verify offers directly with your service provider. If you get a device you didn’t order contact your provider right away and check how it should be returned. Never send back items like cellphones based on instructions from strangers over calls.
“If you think you’ve been targeted by this scam reach out immediately to your bank and report it local police along with contacting Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre,” stated OPP.
Anyone who suspects they’ve experienced fraud should inform their local police department and report it online through Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s Fraud Reporting System at 1-888-495-8501.
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