Store owner in Picton warns customer of potential fraud

March is Fraud Awareness Month, and the Prince Edward County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) shared an example of this awareness in action.

On Tuesday Mar. 2, 2021 an elderly individual was shopping at the No Frills in Picton and attempted to purchase a number of gift cards, according to a release from OPP, dated Friday, Mar. 5, 2021. The owner of the location, Andrew, noted this and took the time to speak to the individual to find out the gift cards were to be sent in exchange for computer repairs. OPP say Andrew assisted the individual in identifying this scam and successfully prevented the individual from being victimized.

“Thank you to Andrew for preventing this fraud attempt,” OPP said in the release. “This highlights the importance of store owners and employees to also be aware of frauds and scams to help avoid further victimization.” 

The OPP continue to remind individuals to be aware of ongoing frauds and scams. “March is fraud month and there is no better time to ask everyone to conduct research, ask questions and take a minute before sending gift cards or money,” OPP said.

OPP share are some red flags to identify frauds and scams:

• Request for gift cards or cryptocurrency
• Urgent request for action or information
• Request for banking information
• Unsolicited attempts at selling products or services

Remember: legitimate agencies will never pressure you for information over the phone or demand money immediately.  

For more information, or to report fraud, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.