One common tactic employed by scammers is caller ID spoofing. This deceptive technique makes the incoming call appear as if it originates from the victim’s legitimate financial institution, increasing the likelihood of falling for the scam.

The Winnipeg Police Service emphasizes that genuine financial institutions never request funds or sensitive personal information via telephone. If receiving a call of this nature, residents are advised to hang up and contact their bank directly using the number found on the back of their financial card.

To protect against fraudulent phone calls, the Winnipeg Police Service recommends the following steps:

● Verify the Caller: If receiving a call claiming to be from a financial institution, hang up and contact the institution directly using the number on the back of the financial card.

● Do Not Share Personal Information: Refrain from providing personal or financial information over the phone unless certain of the caller’s identity.

● Report Suspicious Calls: If believing to have received a fraudulent phone call, report it to the Winnipeg Police Service using the Citizen Online Crime Reporting System.

As fraudulent phone calls continue to target residents, staying vigilant and informed is crucial. By following the Winnipeg Police Service’s advice, individuals can protect themselves and their finances from these deceptive schemes.

Please note: This blog post is for informational purposes only. Winnipeg for Free is not associated with the Winnipeg Police in any manner. Confirm program details with them.