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Police warning residents about lottery scam

Fraudster told the victim that they had won the lottery, and instructed them to transfer $3,000 into a bank account to collect their winnings
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NEWS RELEASE
WATERLOO REGIONAL POLICE SERVICE
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The Waterloo Regional Police Service is issuing a warning to members of the public to be wary of the lottery scam.

The lottery scam involves fraudsters attempting to scam individuals by telling them they have won a lottery or prize. The victim must pay an upfront fee to claim the money and suffers a financial loss. This communication can occur through email, mail, telephone, social media or website pop-ups.

The fraudsters usually provide a bank account number to transfer funds or request payment through a money service or prepaid gift cards to claim the prize.

One instance involved a Waterloo resident. The victim received a phone call from an individual identifying themselves as an employee of a company called the "Global Group." The fraudster had advised the victim that they had won the lottery, and they instructed the victim to transfer $3,000 into a specific bank account to collect their winnings. Later, the victim received two additional phone calls requesting that more money be deposited into an account.

To protect yourself and others from this scam, consider the following:

  • Don't get flustered. Take time to think. The scammer will make it sound urgent to pressure you.
  • Do not confirm any personal or financial information.
  • Verify who is calling (offer to call back using the phone number you have for that person).
  • Call someone you trust or police for an opinion about the call.
  • Do not send any money.

If you believe you have been a victim of a similar scam, you can file a complaint with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or contact Waterloo Regional Police at 519-570-9777. 

Please visit our website Staying Safe - Waterloo Regional Police Service (wrps.on.ca) for more information and safety tips.

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