The Owen Sound Police began an investigation into a Fraud which occurred between June and July of last year. A local resident reported to police on Wednesday that she had befriended someone on Facebook whom she believed to be a man from Alberta.
The deceitful individual indicated that they were out of the country and asked for help as they were unable to make it home. As a result the 54yr old victim made several transactions through Western Union sending approximately $20,000.00 to locations in two other countries. The Criminal Investigation Branch will continue to investigate the matter.
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website this type of “Emergency Scam†has been around for years however there has been a marked increase of complaints within the last two months. “Unfortunately when you send money by wire transfer, the criminals can pick it up anywhere. As soon as it’s retrieved your money is gone.â€
If you want to report a fraud or if you need further information contact the Owen Sound Police Service @ (519) 376-1234 and The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Toll Free @ 1-888-495-8501.