Grey County OPP wish to remind the public to be very cautious when dealing with phone solicitors, door to door sale pitches, mail and internet frauds - especially when asked for personal information. Frauds such as the “Grandparent”, “Microsoft”, “Inheritance”, “Prize Pitch” and “Nigerian” scams have been around for a while and continue to victimize individuals in our communities.
Recently, an elderly Meaford woman was the victim of a phone scam. The victim was contacted by an unknown man claiming to be a representative of the Scotia Bank. The man stated he was investigating an employee at the bank for stealing money and asked the woman for her assistance.
The victim was instructed to go to the bank, withdraw $4,400.00 dollars, and not say anything about the matter. She was then to meet a “Mr. GAMMON” in the parking lot of the Home Hardware store. The victim did as she was instructed; turning over the $4,400.00 to “Mr. GAMMON” who then left the area on foot.
When the victim returned home she received another call from the unidentified male telling her she would be required to do the same transaction on Friday and was to wait for further instructions. The victim told a family member about the incident. The Scotia Bank in Meaford was contacted and the bank confirmed that the woman had been scammed and proceeded to call police.
The suspect, "Mr. GAMMON", was described as approximately 5’9” with a medium build, mid forties, small round face, medium complexion and no facial hair. He was neatly dressed, wearing dark clothing including a winter hat and dark shoes.
Anyone with information which may assist in identifying this individual is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
The OPP strongly suggest that anyone receiving a call like this should be suspicious and takes steps to verify the identity of the caller and the probability of their story. Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion and if in doubt, contact police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) also known as Phone Busters at www.antifraudcentre.ca or 1-888-495-8501
