NEWS RELEASE
WATERLOO REGIONAL POLICE SERVICE
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The Waterloo Regional Police Service is alerting the public after receiving several reports of distraction theft-related incidents within the region.
Between Nov.16 and 17, 2022, four reports have been received from victims who have had their wallets stolen from their purses after being distracted by small talk or questions in a store or shortly after exiting a store.
In one instance, a victim was exiting a store in the area of Ottawa Street South and Fischer-Hallman Road in Kitchener when an unknown suspect engaged them in conversation. After the suspect left, the victim noticed their wallet was missing from their purse. The victim’s stolen debit card was then used to make purchases and cash withdrawals. The victim’s PIN was used during these transactions, indicating that the victim may have been observed by the suspect while paying for their purchases in the store.
While these fraudsters will take advantage of anyone, it appears that the suspects are targeting elderly females.
Waterloo Regional Police are reminding the public to be cautious and protect themselves by following these tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Shield your PIN as you make a purchase or cash withdrawal at an ATM
- If someone appears suspicious and randomly tries to engage in a conversation, pay close attention to your property
- If someone is crowding you in a checkout line, don’t be afraid to ask them to respect your space
- If you are unnecessarily bumped or crowded, be aware that a distraction theft might be occurring and check your valuables
- Keep your personal items within your eyesight while shopping, and do not leave any items unattended
- Be cautious if someone offers to help you bag or carry items you have purchased
- Report any suspicious activity to police
If you have been a victim of a distraction theft and have not yet reported the incident to police, please do so by calling 519-570-9777. If you have any information regarding any fraudulent activity, please report it to police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
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