NEWS RELEASE
SOUTH SIMCOE POLICE SERVICE
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The South Simcoe Police Service would like to make the public aware of a scam that is circulating in our communities called the 'Investment Scam'.
Investment scams can happen in many ways, but they're all full of fake promises and false guarantees. Scammers might post investment advertisements that look real, but victims find that they can't withdraw the money they've 'invested'. In the 'investment scam', the victim sees pop-up advertisment opportunities for investing online on various social media platforms. The victim responds to the advertisement, then the scammer calls them and asks them to download the "ANYDESK" app. This app gives full access to the victim's device, where the scammer can obtain personal and banking information. The scammer will ask the victim to create an account and provide a small investment. The scammer then starts making E-transfers into the 'investment' account from the victim's line of credit accounts and cash advances on credit cards. The scammer then E-transfers the money out of the 'investment' account into several other unknown accounts that the victim does not have access to.
Remember the following tips to protect yourself. Don't be intimidated by high-pressure sales tactics. Do some research on investments before committing. Research the app that you are advised to download. Never download anything that would give access to your device/personal information. No one other than the device user should have access to their devices. Never give out your personal information and don't be afraid to say no. Trust your gut. If it feels wrong, it probably is.
If you are a victim of a scam, report it to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. Visit their website for further information on scams and tips to prevent yourself from being a victim
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